MTN Nigeria, as part of its 2025 Y’ello Connect initiative, conducted a comprehensive training program at St. Augustine College of Education, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, focusing on the ethical application of artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative, driven by MTN staff as a corporate social responsibility endeavor, aimed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to leverage AI effectively and responsibly in their academic pursuits and future careers. The program underscored the growing importance of digital literacy in an increasingly technology-driven world, addressing concerns about plagiarism and promoting the ethical use of AI tools.
The training emphasized the transformative potential of AI while cautioning against its misuse. Mrs. Onyinye Ikenya-Emeka, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to promoting digital literacy from the grassroots level. The initiative targeted various segments of society, including schools, churches, and marketplaces, with the ultimate goal of empowering individuals to navigate the evolving digital landscape. The training specifically addressed the ethical use of AI, encouraging students to utilize it for knowledge expansion and value creation rather than academic dishonesty. The program sought to instill an understanding of the implications of AI in the modern world and equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
Experts from various technological domains contributed to the training, providing students with practical insights and guidance on responsible AI utilization. Mrs. Ugochi Agoreyo, Strategic Partner Development Manager at Google Search, encouraged students to leverage AI to enhance their learning experience rather than solely for assignment completion. She stressed the importance of customizing learning paths through AI for increased efficiency. Ayobamidele Oke, a Solution Architect at Huawei, provided practical instruction on utilizing prompts effectively within AI applications, emphasizing the significance of clear and descriptive instructions to achieve desired outcomes.
The collaboration between MTN and St. Augustine College of Education signals a proactive approach to integrating emerging technologies into the educational framework. Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Vincent Olofinkua, Provost of the college, acknowledged the significance of MTN’s contribution in bridging the digital divide and preparing students for the future. The donation of technological equipment, including laptops, desktops, a projector, and a 5G router, further strengthens the institution’s capacity to provide students with practical experience in utilizing these tools. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering digital literacy and equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of technology.
MTN’s Y’ello Connect initiative, spanning 18 years and implemented across 19 countries, reflects the company’s sustained commitment to community development and digital inclusion. By focusing on the ethical application of AI, the program addresses the critical need for responsible technological adoption, ensuring that future generations are equipped to harness the power of AI for positive impact. This proactive approach acknowledges the transformative potential of technology while mitigating potential risks associated with its misuse, promoting a balanced and beneficial integration of AI into education and society.
The training program at St. Augustine College of Education serves as a model for future initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy and ethical AI adoption. By equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills, the program empowers them to become responsible and informed users of this transformative technology. The collaboration between MTN and educational institutions underscores the shared responsibility in shaping a future where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals and communities to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The long-term impact of such initiatives lies in fostering a generation of technologically proficient individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society while upholding ethical principles in the use of advanced tools like AI.
