CAMPAIGN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A MULTI-SPORTS FACILITY AT MARIAM HIGH SCHOOL

When Alia Zafar, Director at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, visited Mariam High School during her Uganda trip for National Careers Day, she delivered a timely and thought-provoking message on the future of work in an AI-driven world. Addressing a hall of enthusiastic students, she emphasized that artificial intelligence is not a force to fear, but one to prepare for. Her interaction encouraged learners to embrace technology early, remain curious, and develop skills that extend beyond traditional classroom learning.

Drawing from over 29 years of global experience in digital transformation, diversity and inclusion, and human resource management, Alia Zafar highlighted how AI is reshaping industries by automating tasks while simultaneously creating new opportunities. She stressed that success in this evolving landscape will depend on uniquely human capabilities such as critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and ethical judgment. She further encouraged students to adopt a mindset of lifelong learning, leveraging digital platforms and global networks to continuously reskill and stay competitive in a rapidly changing world.

A key highlight of her message was the importance of inclusive and ethical transformation. She cautioned that without deliberate efforts, technological advancement could widen inequalities, and therefore urged leaders and institutions to embed fairness, transparency, and accountability into AI systems. By connecting global trends to local realities, her visit left a lasting impact—reminding students that the AI era is not about replacing human potential, but enhancing it. Her message was clear: the future belongs to those who are prepared to adapt, learn, and lead with purpose.