In a move to promote responsible technology use, MTN Nigeria has trained students of St. Augustine College of Education, Akoka, Lagos, on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethically and effectively.

The training was part of the 2025 Y’ello Connect initiative, MTN’s ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) program aimed at improving digital literacy across communities. This year’s theme, “Connecting at the Roots,” focuses on going back to the basics and helping people understand the digital world from the ground up.

Speaking at the event, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenya-Emeka, said the training was designed to help students understand how to use AI in a productive and ethical way, especially as the technology becomes more embedded in everyday life.

“We’re seeing more students turning in plagiarised assignments and relying entirely on AI. But we’re here to say AI can be used meaningfully—if you use it responsibly, it can help you grow your knowledge and improve your work,” she said.

Learning from the Experts

The session featured insights from top tech professionals:

Ugochi Agoreyo, Strategic Partner Development Manager, Google Search, encouraged the students to use AI as a learning aid, not a shortcut.

“AI can help you learn better and faster. But it must be used ethically. Understand the tech, and let it guide your learning, not do all the work for you,” she said.

Ayobamidele Oke, a Solution Architect from Huawei, gave practical tips on how to give effective prompts when using AI tools like ChatGPT.

“AI works best when you’re clear and descriptive. Always assign it a role—be specific about what you want it to do,” he advised.

More Than Just Words — MTN Gives Back

Beyond the training, MTN also donated essential tech equipment to the school, including:

2 Laptops

10 Desktops and Monitors

10 Mifi Devices

5G Router

Acer Projector and Screen

The donation is aimed at improving the school’s digital infrastructure and helping both students and teachers embrace 21st-century learning tools.

A Step Toward the Future

Rev. Fr. (Dr) Vincent Olofinkua, Provost of St. Augustine College of Education, expressed deep appreciation to MTN, noting that the training and donations are “investments in minds, not just machines.”

“AI is the future, and today’s session is preparing our students to be part of that future—not just as users, but as creators and leaders,” he said.

MTN’s Ongoing Mission

MTN’s Y’ello Connect has been active in 19 countries for the past 18 years, aiming to bridge the digital divide through outreach in schools, communities, and other local settings.

With initiatives like this, MTN continues to show that it's not just about connectivity—it’s about empowering the next generation with the right knowledge, tools, and mindset to thrive in a digital world.