The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has organized a sensitization lecture titled “Monopolies to Fediverse: A Peep into an Alternative Social Media Space” to raise awareness on the risks of social media use and the potential of decentralized platforms.
The event, held at the Mass Communication Department of Kano State Polytechnic, featured presentations on the challenges of mainstream social media and the opportunities provided by alternative platforms like the Fediverse.
Delivering his lecture, the Executive Director of CITAD, Malam Y.Z. Ya’u, explained that the Fediverse is a decentralized network of social media platforms designed to give users more control over their data and privacy.
He stressed the importance of educating people particularly students about the dangers of social media misuse, including privacy violations, harassment, blackmail, and exposure to harmful content.
“Social media is something you don’t necessarily go to school to learn; much of it you learn as you go. Unfortunately, many people fall victim to harassment and blackmail because they are unaware of how these platforms operate,”
The ED said the sensitization program was aimed at helping participants make informed choices on how they engage with social media, urging them to explore alternatives such as the Fediverse for safer and more responsible usage.
Also speaking, the Mass Communication Project Coordinator, Aisar Salihu Musa Kano state polytechnic criticized major tech companies for exploiting users’ personal data, often taking advantage of their gullibility.
He advised participants to remain vigilant online and consider adopting alternative platforms that prioritize privacy and security.
Speaking on behalf of the students Shamsiyya Ibrahim and Zubairu Shuaibu Sulaiman, described the lecture as timely and impactful.
They noted that the session had served as an eye-opener on how to explore alternative platforms like the Fediverse and protect themselves from potential online dangers.