ROUNDCHECK, a youth-led Nigerian fact-checking organisation, has launched Civic Play to make civic education more accessible to young Nigerians, according to an Aug 8 announcement.
The web-based game was unveiled on Saturday during a virtual event organised by the company themed “Advancing Civic Engagement Through Digital Innovation.”
Notably, the Civic Play game is designed to teach young people about government, democracy, citizens’ rights and political participation. The platform features interactive quizzes of over 1,000 questions on civic and political issues.
In addition, users can answer timed questions, receive instant feedback, track their progress and share their progress with the public. The platform also includes different levels and competitive features designed to encourage continued participation and encouragement.
The launch attracted more than 60 participants from notable organisations in Nigeria. The likes of BudgIT, Electoral College Nigeria, The Nation Newspaper, Alkalanci and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development amongst others graced the virtual launch.
Speaking at the launch, Lekan Otufodurin, Executive Director of Media Career Development Network, said digital innovation like Civic Play can make civic education more accessible to young people.
Also, Vahyala Kwaga, Country Director of BudgIT Nigeria, described Civic Play as a practical way to share civic knowledge while encouraging active citizenship.
Victoria Bamas, Project Manager at Alkalanci, commented that civic engagement should extend beyond elections. She then urged citizens to understand how the government works at the state and local levels.
Alao Abiodun, Senior Reporter at The Nation Newspaper, recommended partnerships with government institutions to expand the platform. He also called for a mobile application and greater focus on secondary school students.
Per the report, ROUNDCHECK plans to take Civic Play to about 50 schools and tertiary institutions across Lagos, Oyo and Ogun states to promote civic development.
ROUNDCHECK Executive Director Caleb Ijioma added that the organisation will pursue partnerships and community outreach to expand the platform noting that other features will be added in the later stage.
On its first task after launch, the platform will be tested during the upcoming Osun State governorship election.
Users can access Civic Play through www.civicplay.ng.
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