Monrovia, Liberia, 28 January 2026 — The Frontier Tech Leaders (FTL) Programme celebrated the graduation of its first Machine Learning Bootcamp cohort, marking an important step in strengthening digital skills supporting Liberia’s digital transformation. Hosted by the University of Liberia, the ceremony gathered government officials, academic leaders, partners, and Liberia’s emerging tech talent to recognize the graduates’ achievements.

Launched in May 2025, the FTL Liberia Machine Learning Bootcamp aimed to equip young Liberians with practical machine learning, data science, and leadership skills to address development challenges. The programme received 387 applications, demonstrating strong interest in advanced digital skills. After a rigorous selection process and an intensive three-month training, 41 participants successfully completed the bootcamp.

Beyond the bootcamp, the programme supported an additional 200 young people through community trainings in Advanced Python, Cybersecurity, and Data Engineering.

Across activities, the programme emphasized inclusive participation, particularly for women. Implementation in Liberia included dedicated Python training for women to expand access to digital career opportunities.

The graduation ceremony featured opening remarks from distinguished representatives, including Mr. Aliou Mamaoudu Dia, Resident Representative of UNDP Liberia; Dr. Layli Maparyan, President of the University of Liberia; Mr. Ousmane Bocoum, Programme Management Officer of the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (UNTB); Mr. Sahba Sobhani, Director of UNDP ICPSD; Mr. Uğur Akarsu, Head of Multilateral Development Cooperation Department of the Presidency of Strategy and Budget of Türkiye; Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, Minister of Education of Liberia; Hon. Clarence Massaquoi, Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority; and Hon. Samuel A. Stevquoah, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs of Liberia.

FTL graduate Ms. Fatu Kromah addressed fellow graduates, reflecting on how the programme broadened her horizons and inspired her future aspirations.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of top capstone projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals:

• 1st Place: ResQNet+ – AI-powered emergency response and disaster monitoring

• 2nd Place: ScholarConnect – AI-powered microscholarship platform

• 3rd Place: CivicVoice – AI-driven citizen feedback platform

The ceremony also showcased digital solutions developed by Women in Python participants and prototypes created by UniPod Liberia students, demonstrating Liberia’s growing innovation ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the Frontier Tech Leaders Programme will continue activities in Liberia through community trainings, mentorship, and pre-incubation support. Graduates will also access HP LIFE learning resources, supported by the HP Foundation, to help transform their entrepreneurship ideas into sustainable solutions.