COTONOU — Benin is strengthening its artificial intelligence talent pipeline after recognizing 20 young participants selected through the country’s inaugural National Artificial Intelligence Olympiad.

The selected participants will take part in an intensive bootcamp designed to improve their skills in artificial intelligence and prepare them for the final selection process. Eight young talents will ultimately be chosen to represent Benin at the 2026 International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad in Astana, Kazakhstan, in August.

Technology experts say the initiative could help build a stronger pipeline of young AI researchers and developers in Benin. The programme also includes recognition for four additional winners to encourage greater participation by girls in science and digital technology.

The competition reflects Benin’s growing focus on developing advanced digital skills as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important in education, business, public services, and innovation.

Industry observers say competitions and structured training programmes can help identify promising young talent while encouraging students to pursue careers in software, data science, machine learning, and emerging technologies.

Benin’s AI Olympiad initiative highlights the country’s growing investment in youth technology skills and its ambition to develop a stronger homegrown artificial intelligence ecosystem.