The Nigerian School on Internet Governance (NSIG), under the leadership of the Internet Society Nigeria Chapter, has successfully graduated its 5th cohort, fostering a fresh group of leaders ready to influence the digital space. Held at the Center for Information and Telecommunication Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, the event highlighted the importance of nurturing expertise in Internet governance.
In his keynote address, Kunle Olorundare, President of the Internet Society Nigeria Chapter, emphasized the school’s role in strengthening Nigeria’s presence in global Internet discussions. “NSIG has been pivotal in motivating participants to actively engage in shaping internet policies,” Olorundare remarked, adding that the fellowship school is part of a global movement responding to the growing need for education in this critical field.
Tracing the origins of Internet governance education, he noted, “The first initiative began with the European Summer School on Internet Governance (EuroSSIG) in 2007, which set the foundation for multidisciplinary learning in this area. Since then, schools like NSIG have emerged worldwide to meet these evolving demands.”
With the digital landscape evolving rapidly, Olorundare stressed the growing significance of internet governance. “New concerns around online safety, privacy, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are pushing for thoughtful and informed policies. The rise of the metaverse also presents both opportunities and challenges that need careful consideration.”
Olorundare underscored the crucial role of NSIG in equipping participants with the tools necessary to tackle these complexities. “The school fosters a deep understanding of governance principles, empowering individuals to contribute to creating a safer, more inclusive, and equitable digital future,” he concluded.
