The future of the Internet will be shaped by technology and people who understand it, participate in its governance, and use it to create meaningful change in their communities.
It is with this vision that the Digital Campus Ambassadors Programme was launched as a youth-focused initiative designed to equip young Nigerians with foundational knowledge and practical skills in Internet governance, online safety, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and Internet infrastructure.
The first phase of the programme began with an overwhelming response from young people across tertiary institutions in Nigeria. More than 900 applications were received, from which 100 students were selected to participate in the inaugural cohort.
For four weeks, the selected participants embarked on an intensive learning journey through the “Introduction to Internet Governance” course facilitated by the Internet Society Global. The course provided participants with an opportunity to explore how the Internet works, how it is governed, the different stakeholders involved in Internet governance, and why young people have an important role to play in shaping the digital future.
Beyond the course content, the learning phase created an opportunity for participants from different institutions and backgrounds to connect, exchange perspectives, and begin building a community of young people interested in the future of the Internet in Nigeria.
Celebrating the completion of the first phase
Completing this first phase represents more than the conclusion of a four-week course. It marks the beginning of a longer journey of learning, leadership, community engagement, and participation in Internet governance.
We celebrate the commitment, curiosity, and resilience demonstrated by all the participants throughout this phase. Their willingness to learn about issues that affect how Nigerians connect, communicate, access information, and participate in the digital economy is a reflection of the growing interest of young people in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
As they conclude this phase, we also extend our appreciation to the facilitators, partners, mentors, and everyone who contributed to making the learning experience possible.
From learners to Digital Campus Ambassadors
The completion of the fellowship phase marks the transition into the next stage of the programme.
From 100 participating students, 22 crossed the finish line as we ended this first phase, becoming fellows. We will also be selecting 12 Digital Campus Ambassadors and these ambassadors will proceed to a more focused phase of training, mentorship, and practical engagement.
Their work will centre on areas including:
- Digital policy research and advocacy
- Community awareness and digital literacy
- Internet governance and youth participation
- Community-focused digital initiatives
- Internet infrastructure and connectivity
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Technical solutions that can contribute to improved connectivity within their communities
The ambassadors will be encouraged to deepen their own understanding and also take what they learn beyond the programme and into their campuses and communities.
Looking ahead
The Digital Campus Ambassadors Programme is ultimately about creating pathways for young Nigerians to move from being users of the Internet to informed participants in conversations about its future.
As 22 fellows complete this important stage, we look forward to seeing the ideas, projects, conversations, and community impact that will emerge from the next phase.
We encourage the 22 fellows to continue learning, asking questions, engaging with the Internet governance ecosystem, and finding ways to make their knowledge useful to others.
And to the 12 young people who will emerge as Digital Campus Ambassadors, we look forward to seeing you carry this experience forward- on your campuses, in your communities, and within Nigeria’s broader digital ecosystem.
The future of Internet governance needs informed, engaged, and empowered young people. This is one step towards building that future.
