Inclusive and sustainable technology for education in conflict and crisis (iLearn Toolkit case study)

• In Event: Improving access to quality, safe and inclusive education in EiE contexts through datahubs and digital tools

Proposal

In today's technology-driven world, education is crucial for empowering individuals, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The strategic integration of sustainable technology in educational settings can address environmental concerns and socio-economic disparities. By utilizing innovative tools and platforms, this approach aims to create inclusive learning opportunities for vulnerable populations. Sustainable technology not only expands educational access but also instills environmental responsibility, encouraging students to use resources thoughtfully. This article explores the transformative impact of sustainable technology on education, particularly targeting overage out-of-school children and contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.

The educational landscape in the Northeast of Nigeria is marred by a significant disparity in opportunities for vulnerable, internally displaced children due to conflicts and insurgency. Limited access to essential resources, such as books, technology, and extracurricular activities, restricts their learning potential, creating a persistent gap compared to their more affluent counterparts. Socio-emotional challenges, such as food insecurity and unstable living conditions, further exacerbate these issues, leading to increased absenteeism and disengagement.
Framed under the work of the donor-funded Opportunities to Learn initiative, this paper explores the transformative impact of sustainable technology on education, exploring how it can bridge the gap for Targeting overage out of school children because of conflict and insecurity and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future. Through examination of a case study on the iLearn Literacy Toolkit, this paper highlights the pressing need for targeted interventions that enhance educational experiences while promoting sustainability through collaborative partnerships. This paper presents the validity of the toolkit through its implementation and impact in several pilot communities.
The iLearn Literacy Toolkit was piloted for 4 months in non-formal learning centers in communities in Damaturu LGA in Yobe State, Nigeria with the primary objective of supporting improved teaching and learning outcomes in these communities. Using open-source software in classrooms fosters collaborative learning environments that enhance digital literacy among students. Access to low-cost tablets and internet connectivity proved essential in bridging the digital divide, enabling marginalized students to engage with educational content that is often inaccessible to them. To effectively implement these technologies, targeted recommendations include establishing strategic partnerships between educational institutions and local nonprofits to secure funding, as well as designing community-based training programs that empower parents to support their children's learning at home. Ultimately, prioritizing these strategies can create a sustainable framework that not only elevates educational standards but also contributes to long-term socio-economic development within low-income communities.
By harnessing the power of innovative technologies, we can empower learners, teachers, and communities to thrive in the face of challenges, collect data that will help inform decision-making, and create a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient education system that unlocks learners’ full potential.

Authors

• Elizabeth Mathias Zirra, International Rescue Committee, Noigeria Country Program

• Aishatu Bukar Usman, Plan International. Nigeria