In celebration of International Literacy Day, Aiphabet, an education technology non-profit, and Child Online Africa have launched a joint initiative to promote artificial intelligence (AI) literacy among young people across the continent.

The programme seeks to equip children, educators and communities with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world, while promoting ethical use of technology and digital inclusion.

Centred on this year’s International Literacy Day theme, Literacy for a Sustainable Future, the initiative will combine Aiphabet’s expertise in AI education with Child Online Africa’s experience in child protection and digital rights. It will deliver customised curricula, interactive workshops, and digital resources tailored for learners aged 13 to 18.

The project will begin in selected schools in Ghana, Tanzania and Nigeria, with plans to expand to other African countries by 2026. Its key components include a free AI learning platform covering basics, ethics, data privacy and creative uses of AI; training for teachers; public webinars; AI-themed storytelling sessions; and collaborations with local organisations.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to equipping African children and youth with the skills to thrive safely in a digital world,” said Awo Aidam Amenyah, Executive Director of Child Online Africa. “By aligning with UNESCO’s goals for International Literacy Day, we are demonstrating how literacy—whether digital or AI—directly contributes to sustainable development.”

According to Aiphabet, true literacy in the 21st century must encompass an understanding of AI and its responsible use. The organisation described the partnership as a meaningful step towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring African youth are not only consumers of AI but also informed creators.

Educators, parents and organisations can register to participate through the programme’s new online platform, which went live on International Literacy Day.