Skills Must Solve Real Problems — MTN Foundation

The executive director of MTN Foundation, Mrs Odunayo Sanya, has called on Nigerian youth to look beyond academic certifications and focus on solving human problems with the skills they acquire.

She stated this during her keynote address at a recent technology and innovation boot camp in Lagos. Speaking at the 2025 Data Science of Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp, Sanya challenged young Nigerians to use their knowledge and creativity to drive meaningful change in their communities.

She stated, “Some people tell me they have 50 or 60 certifications. But it’s not about the certifications; it’s about what you do with what you learn.

‘‘At the end of it all, it’s the impact that counts.”

While highlighting Nigeria’s youth advantage, Sanya noted that Africa is the youngest continent on earth, and Nigeria is the youngest country in the world, with a median age of 17. She, however, urged participants to channel their energy into innovation and entrepreneurship that address local challenges.

She remarked,  “With the skills that you have, so what? What next? If you sit down with the knowledge, it doesn’t serve anyone. “You must identify the problems you want to solve and who you’re solving them for.”

According to her, success today is about creating value in the marketplace through problem-solving and collaboration. She emphasised that technology must remain people-centred, saying, ‘we’re solving for human beings, not robots. Whether you’re a data scientist or an AI engineer, your work must humanise technology and bring value to people.’

Speaking further, Sanya urged Nigerian youths to embrace collaboration, stressing that partnership multiplies impact.  “We have islands of excellence across the country. But when we collaborate, one plus one becomes ten. Together, we can reach more people, empower more communities, and scale our impact,” she said.

The MTN Foundation boss also discussed the organisation’s commitment to purpose-driven development, noting that the Foundation’s interventions are guided by four key pillars: purpose, people, planet, and partnership.

“We are only as good as the communities we serve. That is why MTN Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that close the gap between where people are and where they want to be.” she averred.

She revealed that the MTN Foundation has invested about N35 billion in Nigeria over the past 21 years, impacting over 32 million people across 4,500 communities and 550 local government areas.

On women’s participation in technology and artificial intelligence, Sanya advocated deliberate efforts to change social norms that discourage girls from pursuing STEM careers. “We need to reorient our education system and community mindset. “AI should not be seen as a man’s field. Whether you’re a lawyer, designer, or teacher, AI makes you better at what you do.” she said.