Nigerian Youths Trade Privacy for Free Digital Skills Amid Lax EdTech Data Protections

Nigerian youths are increasingly accessing free digital learning opportunities through AI-powered EdTech platforms such as ALX, Cisco Networking Academy, Udemy, and Coursera. These platforms, often supported by government initiatives like the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, offer critical skills in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. However, many learners are unknowingly trading their privacy and personal data in exchange for these educational benefits [1].

A significant portion of users accept privacy policies without reading or fully understanding them. A survey of 55 Nigerian EdTech users found that 42% never read the privacy policies, while 38% only skimmed them [1]. This lack of engagement with privacy terms raises concerns about informed consent. ALX’s privacy policy, for example, collects data such as names, email addresses, educational backgrounds, IP addresses, and device information. According to the policy, data may be shared with affiliates, service providers, or business partners, and is used for service delivery, marketing, research, and legal compliance [1].

Many learners admit they do not pay close attention to these policies. Mishak Mosimabale, an ALX alumnus, stated that policies are deliberately made “bulky” to discourage users from reading them. Kabir Azeez, another learner, echoed this sentiment, explaining that he simply “checked the box and proceeded” without understanding the implications [1]. ALX, which claims its data is not shared and is used only for internal purposes, also maintains that the privacy policy is “not too much to read.” However, the policy itself exceeds 4,000 words, complicating comprehension for average users [1].

Legal frameworks exist to protect user data. Nigeria’s 2023 Data Protection Act and the 2019 Guidelines for Nigerian Content Development in ICT mandate data localisation and outline penalties for violations. Fines of up to N10 million or 2% of annual revenue apply to companies handling over 10,000 data subjects [1]. Yet, enforcement remains inconsistent, and experts like Oladipupo Ige argue that EdTech platforms often copy privacy policies without ensuring clarity or understanding. He claims, “There is no informed consent,” and that users are not adequately informed about how their data is used [1].

Learners express mixed feelings about the trade-off between digital skills and privacy. Ruth Aleshinloye, a 3MTT fellow, supports better transparency, saying, “I would support better transparency so that people can know what’s being done with their data.” Meanwhile, Oluwafunke Faleye said, “I always check the box without reading. I trust them with my data because they have a reputation to protect.” This disparity between trust and awareness creates an accountability gap [1].

Experts warn that the lack of accountability in the EdTech sector could undermine the benefits of digital learning. Without stronger safeguards for clarity, consent, and accountability, learners may unknowingly surrender more control over their data than they intend. Oladipupo Ige noted that EdTech platforms are “not being held accountable for data privacy,” and the regulatory environment is loosely enforced [1].

To address these concerns, simplifying privacy policies, ensuring clear data usage disclosure, and adopting ethical AI practices are recommended as critical steps. This would help ensure that Nigerian youths are not only upskilled but also empowered with the knowledge and control over their personal data [1].

Source: [1] The hidden price of free learning: how Nigerian youths trade privacy for digital skills (https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/689a01dfd80b084b3637fb8b/)