By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
In a remarkable display of community impact, compassion, and visionary leadership, the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, through the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Women Association (FEPNOWA), has launched a groundbreaking empowerment initiative aimed at transforming the lives of teenage girls in deep rural communities.
The project, known as RuralTechieGirls, held its maiden edition on Thursday, 13th November 2025, bringing hope, knowledge, and mentorship to girls who have long been excluded from technological opportunities.
More than just a host, the Rector served as one of the key facilitators, engaging the young girls in candid discussions on life issues, personal development, and the value of education.
Her heart-to-heart session touched on themes such as self-confidence, discipline as a tool for academic success, maintaining focus in a distracting world, early career planning, overcoming peer pressure, personal hygiene and safety, etiquette, and the future of technology and opportunities for women in the digital space.
Accompanied by members of the institution’s Management Team, the Rector personally interacted with the students, ensuring they felt seen, valued, and capable of achieving greatness. Their presence demonstrated the institution’s united commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering the girl child.
The atmosphere at the Polytechnic’s ultra-modern ICT/CBT Centre, housing over 350 functional computer systems, was vibrant as participants arrived from various remote villages. This large-scale training was made possible through the magnanimity of the Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, who approved full access to the institution’s facilities and further provided moral support throughout the event.
Many rural girls continue to fail JAMB and other computer-based examinations due to unfamiliarity with digital devices, and the RuralTechieGirls program tackled this challenge head-on. Participants underwent hands-on computer training, learning basic computer operations, keyboard and mouse handling, navigating CBT exam platforms, internet safety and digital responsibility, as well as foundational skills in word processing and email use.
What made the program even more unique was its mentorship continuity model, as trainers and participants exchanged phone numbers to ensure sustained communication, guidance, and encouragement long after the program.
In a compassionate act that resonated deeply with the girls, FEPNOWA distributed sanitary pads to all participants, acknowledging the essential but often overlooked aspect of menstrual hygiene. This thoughtful gesture reflected the Association’s commitment to promoting the total well-being of the girl child.
President of FEPNOWA, Mrs. Ijeoma Luke-Odoemena, reaffirmed that the initiative is part of a long-term vision to elevate FEPNOWA into a globally recognized association known for impact-driven community service.
Her advocacy took center stage earlier that morning during her live interview on Hot FM 99.5 Owerri, where she spoke extensively about the objectives and future prospects of RuralTechieGirls.
The successful debut of the RuralTechieGirls program has set a strong foundation for continued digital inclusion, mentorship, and girl-child empowerment across rural communities. With unwavering support from the Rector, her Management Team, and the dedicated women of FEPNOWA, the program is expected to expand its reach and create even greater impact in the years ahead. As the mentoring session concluded at the 1000 Capacity Auditorium, the girls departed with renewed confidence—proof that their dreams are valid and their futures brighter.
