The Use of Internet as a Tool for Career Development with AI: Empowering Women and Youth in Africa.

DIGITAL GRASSROOTS

(DIGRA)

THE INTERNET

Internet Is the connection of communication facilities, consisting of interconnected networks using standardized communication protocols.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AI are computer systems capable of performing complex tasks that historically only a human could do, such as reasoning, making decisions, or solving problems.AI technology has the potential to transform key Algorithm and social sectors in Nigeria. However, there are general challenges that prevent the effective adoption and deployment of AI at scale.

LIMITATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

The Lack of a Data Ecosystem

Data collection and digital storage in Nigeria remains poor despite the explosion of tech startups in the country. Cloud computing uptake for in-stance remains low due to cost barriers, security, and other infrastructure concerns. At present, there is only one local data storage provider, Galaxy Backbone who provides cloud services to the government which meet localization requirements.

Low Literacy Rates

The rate of poor public education system with poor learning outcomes in Nigeria is something to cry for.

Reports show that more than half of students who take the secondary school leaving certificate examinations typically fail five or more subject. These poor learning outcomes are driven by the lack of adequate multi-grade classrooms, leading to overcrowding and large variations in knowledge and abilities.

Price and Electricity

Price and electricity can be significant limitations for low-class individuals because high prices make essential goods and services unaffordable, limiting access to housing, healthcare, and education, and preventing savings and investment opportunities.

Statical Analysis on

Challenges in West Africa

Digital Divide:

Limited internet access and affordability remain significant barriers, particularly in rural areas.The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimates that only 43.4% of the West African population has access to the internet. https://www.itu.int/en/mediacentre/Pages/PR-09-2021-P2C-Bridging-Digital-Divide.aspx

Lack of Digital Literacy:

Limited digital skills can hinder the ability to effectively navigate online resources and platforms for career and business development. UNESCO reports that 47% of youth in Sub-Saharan Africa lack basic digital literacy skills.

Gender Gap:

Women often face greater barriers to internet access and digital literacy training due to social norms and limited resources.

The World Wide Web Foundation reports a 25% gender gap in internet usage in Sub-Saharan Africa .https://webfoundation.org/.

Youth in internet career and Business development has emerged as a key driver of innovation and job creation in Africa, with the evolving world where the use of internet can't be disposed. The Artificial intelligence market is proposed to grow by 28.34% between 2024-2030 reaching a market volume of US$16.53 billion in 2030.Some opportunities in which youth and women can leverage on AI related careers include (data science machine learning programming, AI ethics)

Data annotation and labelling.
AI research and development.
AI present opportunities for women and youth to up skill and engage in high skilled roles and leverage AI tools for business growth.

Addressing key challenges that limit women and youth in the economic development in our county and various community at large and harnessing the potential of AI can contribute to the economic empowerment of women and youth in Africa.

In recent years, the Internet has transformed from a mere communication tool into a powerful platform for career and business development. This evolution is especially significant in Africa, where the digital revolution offers unprecedented opportunities for women and youth. By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into this mix, the potential for growth and empowerment is exponential. This article explores how the Internet, coupled with AI, can drive career and business development for women and youth in Africa.

Navigating Cyber RisksCritical Challenges:

Cyberbullying:

Online harassment can devastate mental health, with women and youths often being prime targets.

Privacy Breaches:

Personal data is at constant risk, making privacy protection paramount.

Inappropriate Content:

Exposure to harmful material is a serious concern for young internet users.AI: A Game-Changer in CybersecurityInnovative Protections:Threat Detection: AI's real-time monitoring identifies and neutralizes cyber threats swiftly.

Fraud Prevention:

AI scrutinizes transaction patterns to prevent financial fraud.

Privacy Safeguards:

AI tools enhance privacy settings and ensure secure communication.

"Specifically for Women and Youths":

Safe Online Spaces:

AI filters harmful content and blocks abusive users, fostering a positive digital environment.

Personalized Learning:

AI-driven platform offer customized

educational experience.

Secure Entrepreneurship:

AI optimizes business operations and safeguards online ventures.By integrating AI into cybersecurity, we can transform the internet into a safer and more empowering tool for women and youths. This ensures they can leverage its full potential without fear, fostering growth, learning, and innovation.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite the potential, there are challenges to leveraging the Internet and AI for career and business development in Africa. Limited Internet access, digital literacy, and gender disparities can hinder progress. However, initiatives aimed at improving digital infrastructure, providing affordable Internet access, and promoting digital literacy are crucial steps towards overcoming these barriers.

This Article was compiled by four participants of Digital Grassroot Ambassador Cohort 7, Community Edition, July 2024

Hafsa Yusuf Umar

Gloria Jatau

Abubakar Sadiq Suleiman

Michael Atwusan George