The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Liberia, in collaboration with the University of Liberia, has successfully concluded the first training cycle of the Frontier Tech Leaders (FTL) Programme, implemented under the University Innovation Pod (UniPod). The initiative continues to serve as a national platform for advancing youth innovation, strengthening technology capacity, and accelerating digital transformation across Liberia.

The FTL Programme provides young Liberians with practical exposure to frontier and emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Blockchain, Data Science, and Python programming. The programme is designed to equip participants with future-ready skills aligned with national development priorities and the growing demands of the digital economy.

The graduation ceremony marked significant achievements across multiple beneficiary categories, including:

• 41 graduates from the Machine Learning Bootcamp
• 10 Capstone Projects developed and presented by student teams
• 3 women graduates from the Machine Learning Bootcamp
• 18 women graduates in Python Programming
• 204 Liberians trained in foundational AI skills through short courses

These outcomes reflect UNDP’s strong commitment to expanding inclusive access to frontier technology skills, strengthening Liberia’s innovation ecosystem, and increasing youth participation—particularly women—in the digital economy.

Speaking at the ceremony, UNDP Liberia Resident Representative Mr. Aliou M. Dia emphasized the urgency of investing in future-ready education.

“Investing in technology-driven education is no longer optional, it is essential for shaping the future of our young people. Through the Frontier Tech Leaders Programme, UNDP Liberia continues to expand access to AI, digital skills, and innovation beyond capital cities, ensuring that young leaders across counties and communities are not left behind.”

Mr. Dia further highlighted that the programme’s reach extends beyond traditional learning environments.

“From private learning hubs to libraries and emerging innovation spaces, the vision is clear: inclusive, future-ready education for all. We are inspired by the passion, leadership, and bold ideas of the next generation of tech leaders who are already redefining what is possible. This programme is not just about technology; it is about equity, opportunity, and national transformation.”

The President of the University of Liberia, Dr. Layli Maparyan, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to innovation-driven education and youth empowerment.

“The University of Liberia is proud to serve as a hub for innovation, research, and talent development. Through the UniPod and Frontier Tech Leaders Programme, we are moving education beyond theory and into real-world impact—empowering young Liberians to become creators, problem-solvers, and leaders in an increasingly technology-driven world.”

Dr. Maparyan underscored the importance of partnerships in ensuring that higher education remains responsive to national and global development needs.

As Liberia advances its digital transformation agenda, UNDP Liberia remains committed to working with academic institutions, government partners, and innovation ecosystems to ensure that no one is left behind and that young people are equipped to drive inclusive and sustainable national development.