02/10/2026
WOMEN IN DATA CALLS FOR RESPONSIBLE USAGE OF TECHNOLOGIES
........equally apply them to solve challenges within communities
By Precious Nawa
Women in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (WiDS & AI) Zambia Executive Director and Founder Chilufya Theresa Mulenga said that young people should not only be users of technologies, but have knowledge, skills and opportunities to understand them.
Speaking during the launch of the 1 year journey with young people project on Friday, Ms. Mulenga added that data, Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies are increasingly influencing how learning, work, communication, innovation and people's participation is done in society.
She explained that the project is aimed at working with young people, particularly marginalized communities, to build practical knowledge in areas citing digital literacy, AI foundations, digital rights, online safety, data literacy, data storytelling and data visualization.
"Today marks the beginning of an important 12 month journey with young people a journey focused on strengthening their skills, confidence, leadership and ability to participate meaningfully in shaping their communities. Technology is only one part of the journey, and will create opportunities for young people to strengthen their skills in leadership, gender equality, social inclusion, advocacy, innovation and community engagement", she noted.
The goal is to create spaces where both girls and boys can learn, participate, contribute ideas and take leadership roles, according chance to young people to have confidence to identify challenges affecting communities, understand the evidence behind challenges and contribute to developing solutions.
"For the next 12 months, we will engage young people through schools, universities, colleges, community spaces and virtual platforms. Working closely with educators, facilitators, community leaders, civil society organizations, professionals and other stakeholders who share our commitment to youth empowerment", she stated.
Ms. Mulenga acknowledged that when young people are equipped with the right skills , knowledge, opportunities and platforms they can become contributors to positive change, hence the project will open a 12 month journey of learning, leadership, innovation and youth led action.
02/10/26.