The African Academy of Languages (ACALAN), a specialised language agency of the African Union (AU), is set to establish the ACALAN Continental Youth Committee for the Empowerment of African Languages (ACYCEAL) during its upcoming operational workshop.

The workshop, which aims to promote African languages and digital innovation, will be held at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from May 27th to 28th, 2025.

Under the theme “Empowering African Youth through Language Innovation and Digital Technologies,” the workshop reflects ACALAN’s ongoing commitment to advancing linguistic diversity and youth engagement across the continent.

It aligns with key AU frameworks, including Aspiration 5 of the Agenda 2063, the Language Plan of Action for Africa (LPAA), and the ACALAN Strategic Plan (2022–2032).

Among the distinguished participants is Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, CEO and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, a prominent online media organisation dedicated to enhancing African visibility on the global stage.

“I will be there to contribute to the mobilisation of youth engagement and foster innovative strategies that will drive linguistic empowerment across the continent,” Ilobanafor said in a statement ahead of the workshop.

Ilobanafor’s participation will include expert presentations, panel discussions, and collaborative working groups focused on shaping the operational framework and actionable plans for ACYCEAL.

He also expressed his eagerness to engage in policy discussions, particularly regarding Assembly Decision 796 on Kiswahili and the Decade of African Languages.

“This workshop offers an invaluable opportunity for networking. Collaboration among youth, developers, and investors in language technology is vital for achieving our goals,” Ilobanafor noted.

His involvement in the African Languages Week Coordinating Committee (ALWCC) further underscores his dedication to preserving African linguistic heritage and ensuring its flourishing in the digital era.

The upcoming ACALAN workshop is expected to be a milestone event, marking a significant step forward in youth empowerment and cultural preservation through cutting-edge language technology solutions.