Foundation urges students to embrace AI, build positive digital footprints

Learntor Foundation, a digital transformation non-governmental organisation, has continued its TechUp Boys schools tour in Lagos, urging students to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and build positive digital footprints for future success.

The foundation’s Founder, Mrs Mercy George-Igbafe, spoke during visits to Vetland Senior Grammar School and Keke Senior High School as part of the fourth cohort of the TechUp Boys programme.

NAN reports that the TechUp Boys initiative was inaugurated on June 3 in Education District I and is targeting all SS2 boys in the 39 public secondary schools in the district.

George-Igbafe said the programme was designed to equip underserved male students with AI and digital skills to improve their employability and economic prospects.

Addressing students at Vetland Senior Grammar School, she described AI and digital literacy as essential tools for career success in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

SS2 students of Vetland Senior Grammar School during the visit

She urged students to take advantage of opportunities in emerging technologies, noting that AI was relevant across professions, including engineering, business and vocational trades.

According to her, technology has transformed many careers and can help young people create opportunities for themselves through innovation and digital services.

George-Igbafe also advised students to remain committed to their education, avoid criminal activities and strive to surpass the achievements of previous generations.

She encouraged participants to actively engage in learning and acquire skills that would prepare them for the future of work.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Olujimi Olayinka, a Counsellor at Vetland Senior Grammar School, urged the students to take the programme seriously.

She noted that it was the second time the school was participating in the initiative.

“I want you to prove yourselves this time. There are legitimate ways of making money without engaging in crime,” she said.

One of the participants, David Olowoyeye, an SS2 commercial student of Vetland Senior Grammar School, said the programme had reshaped his perception of the digital space.

At Keke Senior High School, Ifako-Ijaiye, students engaged in a lively debate on cybercrime, with some condemning the practice while others attempted to justify it by citing historical injustices such as the slave trade.

Keke Senior High School

Responding, George-Igbafe urged the students to focus on entrepreneurship and productive ventures rather than seeking quick wealth through criminal activities or social media influence.

She challenged them to think creatively about wealth creation and explore legitimate business opportunities.

The technology expert also cautioned against harmful online activities that could jeopardise their future and damage the country’s reputation.

She encouraged the students to remain focused, responsible and committed to building successful careers through hard work, innovation and ethical conduct.

The TechUp Boys initiative seeks to educate underserved boys in technology and soft skills, while helping them build positive digital footprints and improve their economic prospects.

Speaking with journalists, George-Igbafe disclosed that the foundation had selected a boarding school for its forthcoming boot camp, which is expected to host 1,000 students.

“The bootcamp is a key part of our programme, and we are currently working closely with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, to finalise approvals and logistics.

“It will bring selected students together in a structured environment where they can collaborate, think critically, and build solutions using technology, particularly AI, to address real-life challenges within their communities.

“Our focus is to create a safe, well-coordinated, and impactful experience that goes beyond learning into transformation,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare