AUDA-NEPAD Activates AI Skills and Innovation Drive at UNZA
The African Union Development Agency has held a youth-focused artificial intelligence (AI) skills and innovation activation at the University of Zambia, aimed at equipping students with practical digital skills and career pathways.
The event, held in Lusaka on 10 April 2026, brought together partners including Ele-vate AI, APET and Fixxies Technologies to address the growing gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application in Africa’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
The activation featured interactive sessions designed to empower students as innovators and problem-solvers, with a focus on practical AI skills development, career mapping, ethical AI awareness and access to global opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Director of Science, Technology and Innovation Larry Mweetwa commended the organisers for advancing Zambia’s digital agenda through collaboration.
He noted that artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping global economies, adding that Zambia’s technology sector is increasingly contributing to national economic growth.
Dr Mweetwa encouraged young people to take advantage of opportunities such as international exchanges and upcoming platforms including the Copperbelt Innovation Summit, urging them to focus on scalable and impactful ideas.
He also highlighted Government support structures such as the National Technology Business Centre (NTBC), which provides a platform for innovators to develop and commercialise their ideas.
In addition, Dr Mweetwa revealed plans to introduce an Innovators Bill aimed at strengthening funding mechanisms and the broader innovation ecosystem. He further disclosed ongoing efforts to establish an AI Village at UNZA to support research and technological advancement.
The Government, under President Hakainde Hichilema, continues to prioritise technology and innovation as key drivers of national development, he said.
AUDA-NEPAD representative Barbara outlined the organisation’s role in promoting innovation, skills development and youth empowerment across Africa’s 55 member states.
She emphasised the need for Africa to actively participate in the global AI revolution through locally driven solutions that reflect African languages and contexts.
Dr Barbara also introduced the AUDA-NEPAD Youth in AI and Robotics Competition, encouraging students to participate in the continental initiative designed to support emerging innovators.
