SAYDi Hosts Digital Storytelling Programme to Promote Ethical Technology and Intergenerational Collaboration
The Saving Africa Youths Dream Initiative (SAYDi) on Saturday hosted a thought-provoking programme titled Digital Storytelling for Ethical Technology and Intergenerational Collaboration at the Ilorin Innovation Hub.
The event, held on May 9, 2026, attracted a large turnout of young people, creatives, technology enthusiasts, development advocates, academics, and media practitioners who gathered to examine the role of storytelling, technology, culture, and collaboration in shaping a more responsible digital future.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Director of SAYDi, Abdulkareem O. Abdullateef, stressed the importance of ethical engagement in the digital age and called for stronger collaboration between generations in addressing emerging technological realities. He described storytelling as a powerful instrument for preserving values, amplifying voices, and driving social transformation.
The event opened on a creative note with a poetry performance by Blessing Olugbenga, who explored themes of identity, humanity, and social consciousness within an evolving digital society.
A keynote session later challenged participants to embrace innovation responsibly while ensuring that technological advancement does not diminish cultural values, empathy, and social accountability. Speakers also emphasized the need for inclusive conversations between older and younger generations in navigating digital opportunities and challenges.
One of the highlights of the programme was a series of exhibitions centered on technology, culture, identity, and social realities.
The first exhibition, The Rest of Us by Jalahlat Oluwatunmike Shittu, examined social inclusion and overlooked experiences in society. This was followed by Seeing Through Glaucoma by Rodiat Abike Abdulrahmon, which raised awareness about glaucoma and the importance of health consciousness through visual storytelling.
Another poetry performance by Awonusi Boluwatife further deepened conversations around human experiences and digital influence.
A panel discussion titled Stories and Responsibilities: Navigating Technology Across Generations formed a major intellectual segment of the programme. Panelists examined ethical concerns surrounding technology use, responsibilities tied to digital communication, and the widening generational gap in understanding emerging digital trends. Speakers advocated mutual learning between younger and older generations as a pathway toward building a healthier digital society.
Participants were also treated to a film screening and exhibition presentation by Abubakar Sadiq Mustapha, adding another creative dimension to the event.
Other exhibitions featured at the programme included Hack-the-Hype: The Ones Who Learned to Doubt by Sholola Yusuf Ajani, which challenged audiences to critically examine misinformation, media manipulation, and unquestioned digital trends. Similarly, HUBanization by Abdulkadir Ridwanullahi Damilola explored innovation, urbanization, and the evolving relationship between communities and technology hubs.
The programme also featured another spoken word performance by Oyinloye Seun Dorcas, whose presentation inspired reflection on creativity and advocacy.
Further exhibitions included From Clicks to Change: The Rise of Digital Ambassadors in Kwara by Ibrahim Ahmad Shakiru, which highlighted how young people in Kwara State are using digital platforms for advocacy, community development, and positive social influence.
In another culturally significant presentation, Heritage in Clay: Preserving Tradition Through Pottery by Dr. Mrs. Obisesan Racheal celebrated indigenous creativity and the preservation of cultural heritage through pottery and traditional craftsmanship.
The final exhibition, Marks of Identity by Lawal Ammatul-mujeeb Ayotomiwa, explored themes of identity, expression, and belonging in contemporary society.
The programme concluded with a final poetry performance by Baba Izullahi Ayomide before organizers delivered closing remarks appreciating participants, speakers, artists, and partners for contributing to the success of the event.
Speaking after the programme, participants described the event as impactful, timely, and intellectually stimulating, noting that it successfully created a platform where technology, creativity, ethics, and culture intersect meaningfully.
The event further reaffirmed SAYDi’s commitment to youth development, ethical leadership, creativity, and community-driven conversations aimed at building a more inclusive and responsible society.
