El Echad Foundation, Miss Favour Ugwumba, has advocated for digital innovation and inclusivity in West Africa.

Representing Nigeria at the recently concluded ECOWAS Youth Voices for Change Summit held on June 5-6 2024 in Accra, Ghana, the Executive Director of El Echad Foundation, Miss Favour Ugwumba, emphasized its necessity.

The summit, which brought together youth delegates from various West African countries, focused on amplifying young people’s voices with a particular emphasis on Youth Digital Innovation for Inclusivity, Regional Growth, and Stability.

The summit concluded with a strong call from West African youth for the establishment of innovation hubs across ECOWAS member states, increased investment in digital entrepreneurship, and grassroots initiatives to bolster peace and security through digital technology.

Additionally, the youth advocated for the integration of new technology training into school curricula from an early age through strategic partnerships with national education ministries.

This, they believe, is crucial for equipping the next generation to face the challenges of the 21st century.

In alignment with the summit’s goals, El Echad Foundation noted that it remains committed to promoting digital innovation and inclusivity in Nigeria and the ECOWAS subregion through its digital literacy and STEM education program for girls in public schools in Nigeria.

A statement made available to Vanguard by the foundation, said: “The foundation has developed a comprehensive digital literacy, coding, and STEM education manual currently used in their digital education schools project to teach school-aged children.

“This initiative is part of El Echad Foundation’s broader efforts to support digital innovation, inclusion, regional economic growth, and stability in West Africa.”

Miss Favour Ugwumba highlighted the importance of youth involvement in policy discussions and advocacy, aligning with the principles of the UN Security Council Resolution 2250 and ECOWAS Vision 2050.

She expressed the foundation’s dedication to mentoring models that inspire and equip young people for modern jobs and provide start-up funding for youth self-realization.