The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, in collaboration with Data.Org, has introduced a responsible data management course for public servants.
This online resource aims to equip them with essential knowledge on ethical data handling. The course combines theoretical insights from the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 with practical understanding of data rights and responsibilities, enabling public servants to navigate data management challenges effectively. The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani emphasised the importance of this initiative in preparing civil servants for the evolving digital work environment.
Designed for IT heads, chief information security officers, data protection officers, cybersecurity personnel and other officials handling data processing and privacy in Federal and state MDAs, the course targets to train 10,000 public servants in data management. It offers a concise, self-paced online learning experience that can be completed in 2-3 hours, available in four cohorts for broader accessibility and ongoing learning opportunities. Participants will receive certificates upon completing each cohort.
Registration opens on May 28, 2024, at https://dmc.ndpc.gov.ng, with the following schedule:
– Cohort 1: June 19 – July 17, 2024
– Cohort 2: July 22 – August 17, 2024
– Cohort 3: August 19 – September 14, 2024
– Cohort 4: September 16 – October 12, 2024
The chief executive officer of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji highlighted the importance of addressing privacy issues brought about by new technologies. By enhancing Nigerians’ capacity in data protection, initiatives like the responsible data management course aim to equip public servants with skills to compete globally. Chief data and technological officer at Data.Org, Dr. Uyi Stewart emphasised that the course provides foundational data science knowledge to public servants for making informed decisions in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act principles.
Through an exploration of responsible data handling principles and the data management lifecycle, the course empowers public servants to understand regulatory requirements and ethical frameworks governing data use. A head at NDPC’s research and development, Tolulope Pius-Fadipe, PhD, highlighted that this dual focus prepares public servants to comply with the law both in letter and spirit, enhancing trust in public institutions.
This initiative underlines the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to drive the digitisation of public services and incorporate technology into daily operations.
