Tech firm urges youths to embrace AI, digital skills

A tech company based in Nigeria, TechRise DTI, has called on young people to gain proficiency in artificial intelligence and digital skills to enhance their career prospects and entrepreneurial potential. The initiative was highlighted during a recent webinar titled “The AI Advantage: Who Will Benefit More from AI Usage?” held on Friday. The event attracted a wide audience of young professionals, students, and industry experts interested in exploring how AI can reshape the future of work. Speaking at the webinar, Emmanuel Brendan, director of TechRise DTI, emphasized the growing importance of AI in modern technology and business operations. He explained that the organization's training programs aim to transition participants from theoretical knowledge to hands-on application, supported by technical assistance and mentorship. Brendan pointed out that AI is rapidly transforming industries, making it essential for individuals to acquire these competencies to remain competitive in the job market. He further noted that youth unemployment remains a pressing issue across Africa, particularly due to a mismatch between academic qualifications and the practical demands of contemporary workplaces. Brendan stressed that equipping young people with relevant digital skills could generate positive ripple effects, benefiting not only individuals but also their communities and the broader national economy. Richard Pepple, CEO of Technoville Nigeria, delivered a keynote speech highlighting the uneven impact of AI adoption. He argued that while AI offers substantial advantages, its benefits will not be evenly distributed. Pepple outlined five key areas, speed, capability, scale, personalization, and leverage, where AI could deliver transformative results. However, he warned that certain groups, such as those resistant to change or lacking access to AI tools, might struggle to capitalize on these advancements. Pepple also discussed the dual nature of AI’s influence, predicting that it could create approximately 117 million new jobs globally by 2030 while displacing around 92 million others. He expressed concern that Africa may face unique challenges due to factors like limited access to AI infrastructure, low levels of digital literacy, high data costs, and inadequate telecommunications networks. These barriers could hinder the continent’s ability to fully participate in the AI-driven economic shift. Among the sectors likely to see significant gains from AI integration, Pepple cited professions such as law, medicine, education, entrepreneurship, and business management. He encouraged individuals to combine traditional expertise with AI capabilities to maximize productivity and innovation. At the same time, he cautioned against blind reliance on AI, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and ethical judgment in its application. The webinar also featured insights from Nseabasi Udondian, executive director of TechRise DTI, who shared the organization’s commitment to empowering young Africans through skill development. She revealed that TechRise has already trained over 1,000 youths in AI, data science, product design, and cybersecurity across Nigeria and other African nations. Udondian urged participants to view AI not as a threat but as a tool for empowerment, encouraging them to apply these skills to address real-world issues in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and education. Participants were encouraged to engage actively with AI technologies to foster innovation and create sustainable employment opportunities. Udondian highlighted the enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity demonstrated by attendees, suggesting that there is a growing readiness among young Africans to take leadership roles in shaping the continent’s technological future.