Enhancing health policymakers’ capacity to use information and communication technology in Nigeria

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are tools that have the potential to improve access to vital health information necessary for effective evidence-informed policy. In this study the ICT competence among health policymakers was assessed and an ICT capacity enhancement intervention training workshop was conducted for the policymakers and other stakeholders of the health sector in south-eastern Nigeria. Pre-workshop survey indicated grossly deficient ICT competence among the policymakers particularly the use of internet. The post-workshop survey indicated a significant improvement in ICT competence over the pre-workshop status. ICT training workshop can improve policymakers’ capacity to acquire and apply evidence which is requisite for policymaking.