WikiSkills For Librarians 2024

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2024

2025

Traditionally, libraries have been the cornerstone of information access. However, the advent of the internet and digital technologies has significantly transformed how information is accessed and managed. E-libraries and online information repositories are becoming increasingly popular, providing users with a vast array of resources at their fingertips. This shift necessitates that librarians adapt by developing new digital skills to remain relevant and effective in their roles.

To address the gap in digital proficiency, Open Foundation West Africa (OFWA) and Goethe-Institut Ghana have collaborated to empower librarians in Ghana through the WikiSkills For Librarians Workshop project. This joint initiative aims to bridge the digital skills divide among librarians by equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the Wikimedia space.

Events

Wikiskills for Librarians at the University of Health and Allied Sciences

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As part of our goals to impact librarians in Ghana, we held a 2-day WikiSkills For Librarians Workshop at the University of Health and Allied Sciences(UHAS) Library Department. After the workshop, the UHAS Wiki Club was officially launched.

OFWA and Goethe-Institut Ghana donated three internet routers to the University of Health and Allied Sciences Library Department as part of the club’s establishment to aid with internet access.

Looking ahead, the UHAS Wiki Club aims to expand its reach, involving more librarians and educators from various institutions across Ghana. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, the initiative seeks to create a network of digitally proficient librarians who can lead the way in the digital transformation of libraries.

Wikiskills for Librarians at Tamale

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  Wikiskills for Librarians in Tamale
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  Wikiskills for Librarians in Tamale
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  Wikiskills for Librarians in Tamale
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  Wikiskills for Librarians in Tamale

The workshop, which was held at the Tamale Regional Library from Thursday, July 18, to Friday, July 19, 2024, involved not just training sessions, but also active participation and networking.

Librarians within the northern belt who attended the workshop were involved in practical editing session on Wikipedia, where participants could apply what they have learnt so far. Wikipedia article translations also provided attendees with the skills to translate existing Wikipedia articles into their local languages, empowering them with the ability to contribute to a global platform. This time round an intoduction to wikimedia commons was included to aid participants upload and manage media files on the platform.

The collaboration between Open Foundation West Africa, Goethe-Institut Ghana, the University of Health and Allied Sciences Library Department and the Tamale Regional Library marks a significant step towards empowering librarians in the digital age. By equipping them with the skills to utilise open digital spaces effectively, we are enhancing their professional capabilities and contributing to the democratisation of information access.

This initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving positive change and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the tools to succeed in the digital world.

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Collaborator

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