No fewer than 16 secondary school students have been empowered with digital skills and artificial intelligence (AI) knowledge to equip them with practical skills and opportunities for personal and future development in Anambra State.

The beneficiaries participated in a one-month Digital Skills and Girl-Child Empowerment Bootcamp organised by the LIFT Initiative, which concluded at the Activ8 Hub Complex, Awka.

The programme provided the students with opportunities to learn, collaborate, explore their interests and build confidence in their abilities.

The bootcamp is part of LIFT Initiative’s broader commitment to empowering women and children and equipping young people with skills required to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

During the programme, the participants acquired foundational digital literacy skills, including computer operations, email communication, office practice and office management.

They also received training in Canva design, artificial intelligence for problem-solving and productivity, as well as an introduction to Jita Future.

Through practical exercises, projects and interactive activities, the students developed creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Speaking on the programme, Uche Ralph-Opara said the initiative was designed to create opportunities for young people, particularly girls, to discover their potential and take ownership of their future.

“At LIFT, we believe in creating pathways and opportunities that enable young people, especially girls, to discover their potential and become more.

“Empowerment is about giving them the skills, exposure, confidence and support to grow and take ownership of their future.

“When we invest in our children and young people today, we are contributing to the growth and transformation of our communities tomorrow,” she said.

LIFT also organised a two-day AI Literacy Class for teachers who participated in its International Day of Girls in ICT programme.

The training was aimed at strengthening educators’ understanding of AI and its practical applications in teaching, learning and productivity.

The organisation said the initiative was part of its efforts to “Lift, Inspire, Foster and Transform” by creating pathways that turn young people’s potential into opportunities and lasting impact.