In a bid to equip young Nigerians with the skills to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape, MTN Nigeria has launched an awareness and training campaign on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI).
The initiative, held at St. Augustine College of Education in Akoka, Yaba, Lagos State, forms part of the 2025 edition of Y’ello Connect, the telecom giant’s long-running corporate social responsibility programme.
The training session, led by MTN employees, focused on digital literacy, AI ethics, and the responsible integration of emerging technologies into education.
It brought together students and educators to explore both the benefits and challenges of AI, including the growing risks of plagiarism and misuse.
“Since June 1, we have been working in various venues—schools, training centres, churches, and markets—to raise awareness about issues related to artificial intelligence and machine learning,” said Onyinye Ikenya-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer at MTN Nigeria.
She noted that this year’s theme, “Reconnecting to Roots,” underscores the need to return to the fundamentals of responsible tech use.
Emphasising AI’s potential to support rather than replace learning, Ugochi Agoreyo, Head of Strategic Partnership Development for Google Search, urged students to embrace the technology thoughtfully.
“AI is a tool that should help you learn more efficiently, not do the work for you,” she advised.
The session concluded with a symbolic gesture of support from MTN, which donated vital ICT equipment to the college.
The package included two laptops, ten desktop computers with monitors, a 5G router, ten MiFi devices, a projector, and a projection screen—tools that will bolster both teaching and digital learning.
Reverend Father (Dr) Vincent Olofinkua, Principal of St. Augustine College, welcomed the initiative, praising MTN’s foresight.
“Artificial intelligence is redefining the contours of education, business, and society. By training our young people with these tools, MTN is investing in their future,” he said.
Running for 18 years across 19 African countries, Y’ello Connect continues to promote digital inclusion, technological empowerment, and ethical innovation in communities often left at the margins of the tech revolution.
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