As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize the global economy, a pressing question has emerged: how can we effectively equip the next generation for roles and opportunities that have yet to be imagined? Addressing this critical challenge, French Tech Lagos recently orchestrated a vibrant initiative aimed at fostering innovation, inclusion, and skills development in the AI era.
The event brought together students, tech professionals, and international thought leaders for a dynamic two-part program: a high-impact AI hackathon and an exclusive conference featuring Kwame Yamgnane, co-founder of the revolutionary coding school 42.
AI Hackathon Sparks Creativity and Solutions in Lagos
Last week, French Tech Lagos hosted a one-day AI Hackathon at the Lycée Français Louis Pasteur in Lagos, engaging 10th-grade students in solving real-world business problems using artificial intelligence. This hands-on experience aimed to inspire young minds and demonstrate how AI can be harnessed to address pressing societal and environmental issues.
With support from leading companies such as SPIE, Koolboks, KPMG, and Mitsio Motu, student teams competed to develop innovative solutions across a variety of industry challenges. These ranged from creating sustainable cooling systems to enhancing digital financial services, highlighting the versatile applications of AI in helping solve Africa’s local and global problems.
Throughout the day, expert mentors from Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) guided students, providing insights into AI development, coding, and problem-solving strategies. The winning team, comprising Adeyeni, Janelle, and Juanita, stood out for their innovative proposal, which was developed in response to a challenge posed by Mitsio Motu. Their remarkable work earned them an opportunity to showcase their project at GITEX Nigeria in September, one of Africa’s leading technology expos.
Exclusive Conference: Rethinking Education in the Age of AI
On June 27, Lagos hosted an exclusive keynote session at Impact Hub Lagos, featuring Kwame Yamgnane, an influential figure in global tech education and innovation. Yamgnane’s presence reinforced French Tech Lagos’ commitment to reshaping educational paradigms that align with the demands of the AI-driven economy.
Yamgnane, CEO of Qwasar Silicon Valley, the former Deputy CEO of Epitech, and co-founder of the pioneering coding school 42—also born2code—delivered a compelling discourse on how artificial intelligence is transforming both the skills we require and the methods by which we acquire them.
His vision has disrupted traditional education, making tech careers accessible to thousands from diverse backgrounds without the constraints of tuition, teachers, or diplomas. His groundbreaking model is present in over 40 countries, promoting an inclusive and innovative approach to skills training.
Moderated by Guillaume Niarfeix, MD of SPIE Services Nigeria, the event focused on several critical themes:
- What human and technical skills matter most in the age of AI
- How inclusive and flexible training models can bridge the digital divide
- Strategies for connecting local challenges with global opportunities
Yamgnane emphasized that "more than just a conference, this is a call to rethink education as a tool for resilience, creativity, and opportunity in a fast-changing world."
A Vision for the Future
By hosting Yamgnane’s thought leadership and fostering innovative initiatives like the AI hackathon, French Tech Lagos aims to ignite new ideas and cultivate meaningful collaborations at the nexus of technology, education, and inclusion.
This summit illustrates Lagos’s leadership as a hub for technological advancement and social impact, committed to preparing its youth to thrive amid disruptive innovations. More than just an event, it embodies a shared vision: building resilient communities through inclusive and forward-thinking education and technological empowerment.
With these efforts, French Tech Lagos continues to position Nigeria and Africa as vital players in shaping the future of AI and its role in fostering sustainable development, economic diversification, and social inclusion across the continent.
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