CONNECTING DIGITAL LITERACY AND SOCIAL INNOVATION- BY SAMSON DAWODU

For the 2025 CAAS/ACEA Conference, a cross-disciplinary presentation that brings together perspectives from Economics, Library Science, Digital Literacy, and English on "Social Entrepreneurship through Digital Literacy in Nigeria" would be compelling. Given the conference's theme of "Making, Unmaking, and Remaking Africa," you can present research topics that explore the transformative power of digital literacy in reshaping the Nigerian economy and society. Here are some potential topics that each of the four lecturers could contribute to the collaborative presentation:

1. Economics: "The Role of Digital Literacy in Fostering Social Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth in Nigeria"

This topic can explore how digital literacy empowers individuals, particularly in underserved communities, to create entrepreneurial opportunities, enhance productivity, and contribute to Nigeria's economic growth. It can also examine the economic barriers to digital access and propose policy recommendations to bridge the digital divide.

2. Library Science: "Leveraging Public Libraries for Digital Literacy and Social Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria"

This research can focus on how libraries, as community hubs, can be reimagined as centers for digital skill development. It can investigate the role of public libraries in providing access to digital tools, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating partnerships with local businesses or tech startups in Nigeria.

3. Digital Literacy: "Digital Literacy as a Catalyst for Social Innovation: Bridging the Gap in Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem"

This topic would delve into the connection between digital literacy and social innovation. It can examine how tech-savvy entrepreneurs are using digital platforms to address societal challenges, create employment, and enhance inclusivity, particularly in marginalized communities. Case studies of successful Nigerian social entrepreneurs can be included.

4. English: "Language, Communication, and Digital Literacy: Building a Narrative for Social Entrepreneurship in Nigeria"

The English perspective can focus on how digital platforms enable effective communication and storytelling for social entrepreneurs. It can examine the role of language in branding, marketing, and engaging with diverse audiences in the digital space. Additionally, the research can explore how English language proficiency impacts the success of social entrepreneurship efforts in Nigeria.

Joint Panel Discussion Proposal:

"Remaking Nigeria through Digital Literacy and Social Entrepreneurship: An Interdisciplinary Approach" This session could explore the intersections of economics, library science, digital literacy, and English in promoting social entrepreneurship. The focus would be on how digital literacy enables new entrepreneurial models in Nigeria, transforming communities and creating inclusive economic growth. A roundtable format could encourage debate on policy interventions, educational reform, and the role of digital infrastructure.

These research topics would contribute to the broader discussions on "Making, Unmaking, and Remaking Africa," demonstrating how digital literacy serves as a vital tool in transforming not only the Nigerian economy but also social structures and opportunities.

© SAMSON DAWODU

- Nigeria