By Juliet Umeh

To address the gap in workplace safety education, Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental, HSE, specialist Joy Chikwendu Nwaka has called on Nigerians to leverage technology to reach rural and underserved communities.

According to her, many workers in hard-to-reach areas struggle to access workplace safety training, especially the HSE training.

She said her innovative approach blends digital tools with practical safety principles, revolutionizing how workplace safety is taught across Nigeria.

“With the emergence of AI-driven learning and tele-education platforms, we have successfully brought essential safety education to those who need it most,” she noted.

“In recent years, I have partnered with digital learning providers to create virtual safety training modules, including interactive fire safety simulations and HSE compliance tutorials.

“These initiatives have already reached over 3,000 workers in places like Ifo in Ogun State and Gwale in Kano State. Technology has transformed how we deliver safety training.

“Previously, many workers in rural areas lacked access to structured HSE education. With tele-education, we can now reach communities that were once inaccessible, ensuring everyone gains vital knowledge that can save lives.”

She explained that the online training model allows participants to learn at their own pace while receiving immediate feedback from HSE professionals. In addition to pre-recorded modules, her initiative includes live interactive sessions, enabling trainees to engage directly with safety experts.

For example, in rural Anambra, local businesses have partnered with her team to host these sessions, helping workers adopt best practices in workplace safety.

Beyond digital solutions, Nwaka has also been instrumental in developing in-person training programs to improve safety standards across industries.

“Under my leadership, over 5,000 employees and contractors have received hands-on safety training, while more than 500 practitioners have earned globally recognized HSE certifications, such as NEBOSH Occupational Safety qualifications,” she said.

One trainee shared the impact of the program, saying: “Before now, safety training felt like a formality—something we had to do just for compliance. But this program has completely changed our mindset. We now see safety as a responsibility, not just a requirement.”

Nwaka emphasized the importance of making safety education accessible to all.
She said: “Our mission is to create a culture of safety that leaves no one behind. Through innovation and collaboration, we can ensure that even the most remote communities have access to world-class safety resources.”

Recognizing her contributions to professional capacity-building and the integration of technology into HSE training, the Enugu State Occupational Safety Council recently presented Nwaka with the Workforce Development Excellence Award.