IPYG and HWPL Successfully Host SASP Program with Sierra Leone Youth Leaders
From November 4th to 8th, IPYG and HWPL conducted the “Smart Africa, Start Peace” (SASP) program with youth leaders in Sierra Leone. This three-day Zoom event brought together 15 youth leaders to explore the integration of AI technology with peacebuilding, focusing on practical applications for their communities.
Chairman Lee Man-hee of HWPL has long emphasized that “every youth must become a messenger of peace.” In alignment with this vision, HWPL and IPYG designed the SASP program to empower young people by connecting digital technologies with peace initiatives. The program aimed to foster the growth of youth as peace leaders capable of driving meaningful change in their societies.
The first day introduced participants to HWPL through a video presentation and provided an overview of AI-based initiatives. Attendees also learned how to craft resumes using ChatGPT, equipping them to enhance their professional skills.
On the second day, participants were introduced to IPYG, followed by sessions on using ChatGPT for image generation and report writing. These activities helped the attendees develop creative and practical communication skills essential for peace-related projects.
The third day featured a comprehensive introduction to Chairman Lee Man-hee and HWPL’s vision, alongside training on reliable information-gathering techniques and peace project proposal writing. These sessions were designed to enable participants to effectively plan peace and educational projects in their communities.
Malcolm Willie Decker, Senior ICT Officer at the Independent Media Commission (IMC) of Sierra Leone, shared his thoughts on the program, stating:
“I can share insights into how education about AI can impact individuals and enhance critical thinking skills, which are all vital in our increasingly digital world. Regarding peace, education—whether about AI or other subjects—can promote empathy, cooperation, and informed dialogue. Learning about diverse perspectives can help bridge divides and foster a more harmonious society. In both cases, knowledge and understanding can be catalysts for positive change, whether in technology or in promoting peace.”
Joseph Foday Gombu, founder of the Gombu Youth Agric Tech Company (GYATC), also expressed his appreciation for the sessions, saying:
“It was really worth the experience, cushioning the burdens of too much writing. I believe through this training a lot was learned and we can use it as a tool for preaching peace, cohesion, and stability in Sierra Leone.”
The SASP program not only served as a platform to showcase HWPL and IPYG’s vision but also highlighted an innovative educational model that combines AI technology training with peacebuilding.
Following the program, IPYG prepared a portfolio of the training sessions to share with the National Youth Council of Sierra Leone. Moreover, participants were tasked with creating “Peace Proposals for IPYG,” through which youth organizations in Sierra Leone will launch peace projects that reflect their aspirations for unity and stability. Moving forward, IPYG and HWPL plan to continue expanding opportunities for digital innovation and education, strengthening collaborations with youth organizations worldwide to promote peace.
