The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, in partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and Data.Org, has introduced a Responsible Data Management Course. This free online resource aims to equip public servants with essential knowledge of ethical data management, integrating the theoretical aspects of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 with practical insights into data rights and responsibilities.
The course is designed to help public servants navigate the complexities of data management and mitigate vulnerabilities within the public service. Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “This partnership between the NDPC and Data.Org is the first in a series of engagements planned to equip civil servants with the necessary knowledge and skills to operate effectively in a rapidly evolving digital work environment.”
Targeted at Heads of IT, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Data Protection Officers (DPOs), IT & Cybersecurity Personnel, and other officers dealing with data processing and privacy within Federal and State MDAs, the course aims to train 10,000 public servants. It offers a concise, self-paced learning experience designed to be completed in just 2-3 hours and is available in four cohorts, ensuring broad accessibility and continuous learning opportunities. Participants will receive certificates upon completion of each cohort.
The registration for the course begins on May 28, 2024, via 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
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, NC/Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, highlighted the increasing importance of addressing privacy issues arising from emerging technologies. He stated, “We are implementing measures to enhance the capacity of Nigerians in the Data Protection ecosystem. The Responsible Data Management Course is one such initiative designed to equip Nigerian public servants with the relevant skills to be globally competitive.”
Dr. Uyi Stewart, Chief Data and Technological Officer at Data.Org, noted that the course provides foundational data science knowledge and skills, enabling public servants to make informed decisions about data. It emphasizes the practical application of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, ethical data handling, safeguarding privacy, and effective data governance.
By focusing on responsible data handling principles and the lifecycle of data management, the course prepares public servants to meet regulatory requirements and apply ethical frameworks in their work. This initiative underscores the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s commitment to advancing the digitization of public services and integrating technology into daily governmental operations.
