IPNEWS; As part of UNDP AI Week (November 17–21), UNDP Liberia hosted a series of Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshops for the University of Liberia (UL), technical officials from ministries and public institutions, and UNDP staff.
A key highlight was a three-day workshop dedicated to designing Liberia’s first-ever master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, to be offered by UL. This initiative follows the signing of a Standard Letter of Agreement (SLA) between UL and UNDP earlier this year, marking the start of a transformative partnership to promote innovation, technology, and strategic development in Liberia.
The program aims to equip students with advanced digital skills and position Liberia as a leader in regional digital transformation. The workshop brought together faculty members, private sector actors, development partners, students, and international AI experts to co-create a modern, industry-aligned postgraduate program.
Using the Master of AI Canvas, participants defined the program’s structure, target audience, entry requirements, learning outcomes, infrastructure needs, and career pathways. Direct engagement with students ensured the curriculum reflects real-world priorities and national development goals.
Opening Remarks
Mr. Kaman Weah, UNDP Liberia’s Head of ICT and Digital Advocate, welcomed Dhani Spiller, Head of Capacity Lab from UNDP’s Chief Digital Office (CDO).
“Their presence marks an important milestone as we transition from online collaboration to hands-on, in-person work. On behalf of UNDP senior management, I express our profound appreciation to the University of Liberia for its dedication, openness, and leadership in moving this vision forward,” Weah said.
He emphasized that UL’s commitment demonstrates readiness to embrace innovation and position Liberia as a regional leader in digital transformation.
Dr. Weade Kobbah-Boley, UL Vice President for Institutional Development Planning, described the training as timely and practical:
“This workshop provides faculty and students with hands-on exposure to tools and models shaping the future of education, technology, and work.
The ideas shared here align strongly with UL’s vision to modernize learning and ensure our graduates are prepared for global competitiveness.”
The workshop delivered a comprehensive Master of AI Program Design Pack, including a draft curriculum, partnership strategy, and recommendations on facilities and technology needs.
Global Perspective
As AI transforms sectors such as governance, health, agriculture, business, and education worldwide, the launch of this program comes at a critical moment for Liberia.
It reflects a strong commitment to cultivating home-grown talent capable of driving innovation and contributing to Africa’s digital future.
Dhani Spiller noted, “We are honored to support UL in shaping a master’s program that reflects global standards while addressing Liberia’s unique opportunities and challenges. Our goal is to build a curriculum that is technically strong, practical, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of students, faculty, and industry.”
Related Development: AI Training for Public Sector
In parallel, the Government of Liberia, with support from UNDP, launched a landmark AI Training Programme for technical officials from ministries and public institutions nationwide—one of Liberia’s first structured national efforts to build AI capacity within the public sector.
The training introduces government professionals to emerging opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, including better service delivery, data-driven decision-making, and institutional modernization.
UNDP Resident Representative Aliou Dia emphasized, “This training is more than a technical exercise; it represents the foundation of a new development pathway for Liberia.
AI will strengthen institutions, enhance service delivery, and support evidence-based decision-making that improves lives.”
Government officials, including Nathaniel T. Kwabo, Director General of the Cabinet, and S. Mohammed Massaley, Deputy Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to building an inclusive, forward-looking digital ecosystem.
UNDP’s Broader Digital Initiatives in Liberia
- Establishing a Master’s Program in AI and Cybersecurity at UL.
- Scaling digital and AI skills training for youth, targeting 50,000 young people.
- Strengthening cybersecurity readiness and building resilient digital governance systems.
- Supporting the digitalization of Cabinet processes and public-sector workflows.
Mr. Dia noted growing global interest in Liberia’s digital development efforts, reflecting rising international confidence in the country’s direction and potential.
Next Steps: Building Liberia’s Digital Future
The launch of the AI Training Programme and progress toward the AI Master’s Program mark significant milestones in Liberia’s journey to build a modern, innovative, and digitally empowered nation—preparing its workforce for opportunities in the global digital economy.
