Smart Africa: Start Peace – Empowering Young Leaders in West Africa with AI Skills

In a landmark effort to empower young leaders in West Africa, IPYG and Sierra Leone’s National Youth Council (NYC) recently co-hosted an online training series titled . Held on November 4th, 6th, and 8th, the event aimed to equip young people in Sierra Leone with the skills necessary to leverage AI technology for professional and personal growth, laying a foundation for a sustainable, peace-oriented society.

The training series introduced participants to practical applications of AI using ChatGPT, covering topics such as resume building, report and proposal drafting, image generation, and efficient research techniques. By focusing on these essential skills, IPYG and NYC aimed to empower youth with tools to create opportunities, shape career pathways, and take on leadership roles. Additionally, participants learned about the shared vision of peace held by IPYG and HWPL, and their commitment to helping young people develop the skills needed to take on social responsibilities and drive positive change.

This program reflects the growing importance of AI in Africa’s digital transformation, especially following the digital agreement signed in June 2024 by 150 African Ministers of Information and Communications. This agreement aligns with Agenda 2063, which emphasizes AI’s potential to drive growth and innovation on the continent. Recognizing the value of nurturing future leaders, IPYG Chairman Man-hee Lee emphasized the importance of empowering youth as catalysts for social change and sustainability.

The event also fostered a strengthened partnership between IPYG and NYC, which hope that this will serve as a foundation for ongoing collaboration in peace-building and capacity development across West Africa. Through this initiative, IPYG’s peace network continues to expand in the region, uniting young leaders through the integration of peace education and digital skills.

By equipping young leaders with practical AI skills and promoting the values of peace, IPYG and NYC have set a meaningful precedent for sustainable, youth-driven social change across West Africa.