Digital Security and Technology Access Program

Under this program, NEVCO empowers women human rights defenders in grassroots communities with the digital skills and security knowledge necessary to navigate the online world safely and effectively. NEVCO offers digital security training and support to women activists, particularly those involved in activism or advocacy, to help them navigate online threats and maintain privacy. We recognize the unique challenges women activists in grassroots communities face online, including increased risks of harassment, surveillance and digital violence. NEVCO designed this program to equip defenders with tools and resources to participate in digital activism securely and confidently.

By integrating technology into activism, the program enhances learning outcomes and prepares grassroots activists for the digital economy. The program offers training for activists in digital literacy and innovative teaching methods that leverage technology while in the field. Workshops are held for activists and NEVCO staff to help them understand the importance of digital skills and online safety. Furthermore, in this program, we partner with IT personnel’s to provide internships and mentorship opportunities to activists and staff in technology-related fields.

Our program offers a comprehensive approach to digital literacy and security combining training, resources and community support tailored to the specific needs and experiences of women human rights defenders in vulnerable communities

We cover the following key areas;

• Digital Literacy & Skills Development: Under Essential Digital Tools women are trained on Mastering emails, social media, messaging apps, and online collaboration tools for effective communication and organization. We focus on strategies for building online communities and secure collaboration. Then under Content Creation & Dissemination women Learn to create engaging digital content (text, images, video) and effectively share it online while protecting your privacy and securityAnd under Data Analysis & Research women are trained on Utilizing online resources for research, data analysis, and developing impactful narratives for advocacy.
• Online Safety & Security: Under Cyber security Fundamentals women are trained in Understanding common threats like malware, phishing, hacking, and doxing, and learning how to protect yourself and your devices. Then under Privacy Protection women are taken through the Strategies they need to protect their personal information online, including managing privacy settings on social media and other platforms. Under Digital Self-Defense women are taught on Recognizing and responding to online harassment, including strategies for reporting abuse and seeking support. Then under Secure Communication women are trained on\Using encrypted messaging apps and secure communication practices to protect your conversations from surveillance and under Password Management, women are given knowledge an tips on Creating strong, unique passwords and utilizing password managers for enhanced security.
• Technology Access & Support: Under Bridging the Digital Divide NEVCO tries Addressing barriers to technology access for women activists, including providing access to devices, internet connectivity, and technical support. And under Digital Literacy Mentorship NEVCO focuses at Pairing and connecting experienced activists with those newer to digital tools for personalized support and guidance.

Components of the above program include ; Interactive Workshops where key topics are covered, featuring small group discussions and practical exercises, Online Resources giving Access to an organized library of online resources, including guides, tutorials, and checklists ,Individual Consultations where women are given Opportunities for one-on-one support with program facilitators to address specific needs and challenges and Community Forum s that provide a safe and supportive online space for participants to connect, share experiences, and ask questions .

This program matters a lot because the internet is a powerful tool for social change, but it also presents unique risks particularly for women activists. By building digital literacy and security skills, activist’s effectiveness can be enhanced while protecting themselves from online threats.