The ECOWAS Commission, functioning as the Secretariat for the West Africa Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF), in partnership with the Government of Senegal, intends to organize the 16th edition of the WAIGF from July 11th to 12th, 2024. Prior to the WAIGF, the 7th West African School on Internet Governance (WASIG) is scheduled to be held online from May 20th to June 20th, 2024, followed by an in-person session in Dakar, Senegal, from July 7th to 10th, 2024.
Program Structure:
The curriculum is designed as a month-long certified online course followed by a three-day intensive learning session in Dakar, Senegal. Its goal is to introduce participants to Internet governance from both a global and West African standpoint. The format includes discussions with experts in the field and opportunities for involvement in the West Africa Youth IGF and WAIGF in Senegal. Attendees who satisfactorily complete the training will receive certificates of completion. The key areas addressed by the program are as follows:
- The development of the Internet and the historical progression of Internet governance.
- Mapping of Internet governance processes and actors.
- Classifications of Internet governance issues (infrastructure, legal, economic, and developmental) from African perspectives.
- In-depth examination of opportunities and challenges related to emerging issues (Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Digital economy, Human rights).
- A practicum in digital policy.
Application Criteria
Applications: Individuals from West Africa are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should play significant roles or hold decision-making positions in Internet governance or ICT policy processes. They should also possess the capacity to contribute actively or in the near future to Internet governance activities and processes within their organizations, countries, continents, and globally.
Candidates should represent various stakeholder groups, including:
- Youth and women groups
- Civil society
- Private sector
- Media
- Government agencies and regulatory bodies
- Security and defence forces
- Academic and technical communities
- Archives, libraries, and documentation centres
- Parliament
- West African regional institutions, among others
Women and youth are especially encouraged to apply. Available slots are limited. Candidates are kindly requested to complete the application form and submit it before May 15th, 2024.
Application Procedure
For Further Details,
Application Deadline: May 15th, 2024.
