Instituto Nupef (Centre for Research, Studies and Training) is a space dedicated to reflection, analysis, knowledge production and training; which especially focusses on questions related to the inter-connections between Information & Communication Technologies (ICTs) and human rights, democracy, sustainable development and social justice concerns. Nupef attempts to sensitise, train and mobilise policy makers, governments, intellectuals, civil society activists and citizens to strategically respond to the challenges faced by networked societies, especially in relation to defending access to knowledge, freedom of expression, and cultural diversity; amongst other fundamental rights. To this end, Nupef is engaged in applied research, publication and advocacy actions.

As part of the Women-Gov project, Nupef will be primarily working with 39 women leaders and coordinators of Afro-religion centres based in poor communities of the city of Rio de Janeiro, who are a part of the Multiversidade programme of the NGO Criola, that works towards strengthening the capacities of black women on issues related to feminism and the fight against racism. Criola is a civil society organisation founded and run by black women, whose primary focus is to protect and promote black women's rights. Over the project period, Nupef will attempt to enhance community recognition of these leaders as legitimate political actors, for amplifying women's voices and enhancing their participation in local governance.