Smart Aid Initiative Commends Zamfara State for Launching Nigeria’s First-Ever State Digital Literacy Framework
Smart Aid Initiative proudly commends the Government of Zamfara State for launching the Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework (ZDLF) a landmark step toward digital empowerment, inclusive education, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
As the first state in the country to institutionalize a digital literacy framework, Zamfara has demonstrated bold leadership and a forward-thinking commitment to preparing its citizens, especially students and educators for a rapidly evolving digital future. The ZDLF is a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide, particularly in a time when many within Nigeria’s education sector, including teachers, have been left behind in the global digital revolution.
The framework is designed to embed digital learning and ICT integration across all levels of education, while also providing structured training in digital skills. This positions Zamfara as a frontrunner in Africa’s race to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovation, and emerging technologies to solve real-world challenges.
We are especially inspired by Zamfara’s strategic partnership with Oracle Corporation, which aims to equip 3,000 youths with advanced skills in Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Database Management. These efforts, coupled with the establishment of the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology (ZIIT) as a regional center of excellence, mark a transformative era in building homegrown talent and enhancing global competitiveness.
Smart Aid Initiative commends the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA) for its leadership and coordination in actualizing this visionary project. The framework represents more than a policy, it is a promise to the youth of Zamfara state and Nigeria at large.
However, we emphasize that the success of the ZDLF will depend not just on its vision but on its inclusive and effective implementation. We call on the state government to ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs), rural learners, and other underserved groups are not left behind in this digital transition. True digital literacy must be equitable and accessible to all.
We also urge the continued collaboration with civil society, youth-led organizations, and educational institutions to refine and scale the framework across communities. The robust engagement witnessed during the high-level stakeholders’ event at Garba Nadama Hall on June 18, 2025, reflects the potential for collective ownership and sustainability.
We call on other states across Nigeria to emulate Zamfara’s bold example by developing and implementing similar frameworks that equip young people with digital skills, promote innovation, and build inclusive knowledge economies.
We remain committed to supporting Zamfara State in this transformative journey and stand ready to collaborate in ensuring that the ZDLF becomes a beacon of inclusive digital progress, not only for Zamfara but for the entire nation.
Congratulations to the Zamfara State Government, ZITDA, and all stakeholders involved in this groundbreaking initiative.
Fareed Ibrahim
Executive Director Smart Aid Initiative
Visit: www.SmartAidInitiative.org
Email: info@smartaidinitiative.com