Women and information communication technologies: setting the context for information literacy programme and social change in Cameroon

Abstract

The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) define information literacy as the ability to identify, locate, access, evaluate and apply the needed information. Such a definition highlights the importance of human (teachers, librarians etc) and infrastructure resources (information communication technologies like - television, radio, internet etc) in the construction of an 'information literate society'. These resources contribute to the acquisition and effective use of information by the entire population. Unfortunately, in the process of knowledge acquisition and exposure, women, poor and rural are most disadvantaged because they constitute a larger proportion of the population with low level or no formal education, a resource that is vital in exploiting information. By implication they are deprived of knowledge and skills to effectively participate in the decision-making process to shape their destiny and development of their family, community and nation as a whole. This paper explains the above phenomenon using thesis, NGOs, government and field placement reports on gender/women and ICTs in Cameroon. It uses data from these reports and other secondary literature to justify the need for information literacy programme, since 'information is power'. ICT is considered an entry point for information literacy/Tele-centre to identify, locate, access, evaluate and apply needed information to foster social transformation and inclusive development.