Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people with entrepreneurial and work-readiness skills, has embarked on a transformative journey to equip the next generation of Nigerian innovators with the power of artificial intelligence. In partnership with Microsoft Philanthropies, JAN has launched the Career Essentials in Generative AI program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge the digital skills gap and unlock the potential of young Nigerians in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This program, commencing in February 2024, will provide over 5,000 young individuals with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate the world of generative AI and its transformative impact across various industries.
The Career Essentials in Generative AI program is a structured and interactive learning experience tailored to post-secondary learners, encompassing undergraduates, postgraduates, and National Youth Service Corps members. Participants will receive personalized access to the training materials, enabling them to engage in self-paced learning with structured guidance. This innovative approach ensures flexibility and accessibility while maintaining a focused and comprehensive curriculum. The program delves into the core principles and functionality of generative AI, equipping participants with a solid foundation in this cutting-edge technology. Crucially, the training emphasizes real-world applications, demonstrating how generative AI is reshaping industries and creating new opportunities.
The program goes beyond technical skills development, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation – essential skills for thriving in an AI-driven workforce. By cultivating these abilities, the program empowers participants to not just adapt to the changing landscape but to become active shapers of the future, driving innovation and contributing meaningfully to the digital economy. This holistic approach recognizes that the future of work demands not only technical proficiency but also the ability to analyze, adapt, and create in a constantly evolving environment.
The collaboration between JAN and Microsoft Philanthropies underscores a shared vision of a future where young people are empowered to harness the transformative potential of technology. Both organizations recognize the critical role of digital literacy in enabling individuals to thrive in the modern economy. By investing in the development of AI skills among young Nigerians, they are not only preparing them for future career opportunities but also fostering a generation of innovators and problem-solvers who can contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s digital economy. This initiative aligns with the global push for digital inclusion and aims to ensure that young Nigerians are not left behind in the AI revolution.
Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, emphasized the significance of the program in the context of the rapidly transforming work landscape. She highlighted that technology, and particularly AI, is at the forefront of this change. By equipping young Nigerians with generative AI skills, JAN is not only preparing them for future employment but also empowering them to become innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in the digital age. This proactive approach aims to position young Nigerians at the forefront of the AI revolution, enabling them to shape the future rather than simply reacting to it. Achebe further emphasized the program’s alignment with JAN’s commitment to ensuring Nigerian youth are actively engaged in the global AI revolution.
The Career Essentials in Generative AI program is more than just a skills development initiative; it’s an investment in the future of Nigeria. By providing young people with access to foundational and practical AI knowledge, the program aims to build their confidence and open doors to a wealth of opportunities in the evolving world of work. This initiative is not simply about catching up with the latest technological advancements; it’s about empowering young Nigerians to become pioneers, innovators, and leaders in the digital age, driving economic growth and societal progress through the transformative power of AI. It’s about building a future where Nigerian youth are not just participants but driving forces in the global technological landscape.
