African youth to receive training in AI

The Vanuatu Trade Commission in Ghana, in collaboration with the African Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB), has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at training five million African youth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for free.

This strategic partnership seeks to bridge the digital divide, providing access to cutting-edge technology education, and empowering the next generation with the skills needed to innovate, create, and lead in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Launch of the Initiative

The initiative was officially launched in Accra, bringing together prominent dignitaries, including Justice Kweku Ackaah-Boafo of the Appeals Court, Justice Patricia Quansah of the High Court, and Professor Roberts Dean, the Continental Vice-President of IPGC, USA.

The initial phase of the project will focus on Ghana, where 300,000 youth will be trained in various AI disciplines such as AI Prompt Engineering, Deep Learning, and Machine Learning.

The training will be facilitated by Knowledge Web Centre, a Ghanaian-based IT and consultancy firm.

Transformative Era for Africa

Speaking at the launch, Vanuatu Trade Commissioner to Ghana, Professor Hugh Keku Aryee, emphasized the significance of the partnership between his office and the ADCB.

He noted that their mission extends beyond economic transactions to fostering a transformative era in Africa.

“At the dawn of a global transformative era, Africa stands at a crossroads, either remaining a passive participant or taking a bold step towards becoming a leading force in the global digital economy,” he said.

Professor Aryee highlighted that their mission is about creating partnerships that leverage Africa’s vast resources, vibrant cultures, and dynamic human capital to unlock unprecedented levels of growth and development.

This AI training initiative is seen as a critical step in achieving this vision.

The Potential of AI in Africa

Professor Aryee underscored the strategic imperative of training African youth in AI for the continent’s future.

He pointed out that AI is at the forefront of a global revolution, with the potential to reshape industries, enhance productivity, and solve complex societal challenges.

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For Africa, the stakes and opportunities are particularly high.

“Recent studies, including those by PwC, project that AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with $6.6 trillion of this derived from increased productivity and $9.1 trillion from consumption-side effects,” he explained.

With over 60 percent of its population under the age of 25, Africa’s youth represent not only the future of the continent but also its most significant asset in embracing the digital revolution.

By equipping young Africans with AI skills, the initiative aims to harness this potential, positioning Africa as a major player in the global digital economy.

Empowering the Next Generation

Dr. David King Boison, the Chief Executive Officer of Knowledge Web Centre and the AI Africa Training Project Lead, elaborated on the transformative potential of the initiative.

He stated that the training would empower individuals, enhance job prospects, and foster a new generation of technologists who will drive Africa’s future.

“The AI Africa Project is a visionary initiative set to be a game-changer for our continent. With a robust budget of $500 million, generously sponsored by the African Diaspora Development Bank in partnership with the Vanuatu Trade Commission, this project is a testament to the power of collaboration and foresight,” he said.

This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of Africa, providing young people with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.

By focusing on AI education, the Vanuatu Trade Commission and ADCB are not only addressing immediate educational needs but are also laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and development.

As Africa stands at the threshold of a digital revolution, such initiatives are crucial in ensuring that the continent does not just participate but leads in the global digital economy.

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