Abstract

The digital transformation of communities in Nigeria is exemplified by the SEED ICT Hub in Nguzu Edda, which is a project aimed at bridging the digital divide in rural areas. This initiative, led by the Sowing Empowerment for Edda Development (SEED), seeks to enhance digital literacy, economic opportunities, and educational outcomes for the community. The project addresses the significant disparities in access to technology and digital literacy, which are critical for community development and empowerment. SEED, as a civil society organization, launched the ICT hub to provide comprehensive training in information and communication technologies (ICT) to students and community members. The hub aims to improve digital skills, access information, economic empowerment, and educational advancement.

By integrating ICT into education and local businesses, the hub enhances economic growth and social inclusion, and Organizational Development (OD) plays a crucial role in this transformation. OD strategies such as strategic alignment, change management, capacity building, process optimization, and performance management are essential for leveraging digital technologies and fostering innovation. The SEED ICT Hub employs these principles to ensure that digital transformation initiatives align with broader organizational goals and community needs and faces several challenges, including security concerns and low initial ICT literacy levels among students. Measures such as enhancing security and providing foundational training were implemented to address these issues.

The hub's sustainability is ensured through continuous community engagement, local partnerships, and adaptive strategies, which include community engagement, capacity building, local partnerships, sustainability efforts, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. These lessons highlight the need for a holistic approach that integrates technology with broader development goals. The SEED ICT Hub in Nguzu Edda demonstrates how organizational development can drive digital transformation, enhancing digital literacy and empowerment in rural communities. A project's success provides a model for similar initiatives and underscores the importance of sustained support and stakeholder involvement in achieving long-term goals.