The Comoros Facing the Challenges of Digital Technology and AI

The country has high mobile penetration (86%), but only 35 to 36% of the population uses the internet, and 31% use social media, with smartphone usage largely dominant.

These figures were presented at the fifth edition of the Careers Fair, held on December 11 at the Wanani University Center in Mwali. Organized by the Employment Center (Mde) and facilitated by the Agence universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), the event brought together professors, professionals, and students for a day of discussions focused on careers in digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and employment for young people and women.

Aboubacar Ben Aboubacar, AUF representative in the Comoros and university professor, reminded attendees that digital technology encompasses information and communication sciences and technologies. He warned of the risks associated with these technologies, particularly regarding security, privacy, the erosion of critical thinking, addiction, and also socio-economic and technical consequences. “These warnings aim to prepare society for the thoughtful and secure use of digital tools, which are essential for the country’s development,” he explained.

Despite these challenges, digital technology and AI offer numerous career opportunities. Jobs related to infrastructure, systems and networks, cybersecurity, and programming are particularly promising. Other sectors, such as communication, marketing, business development, and project management, also benefit from this transformation. “AI is not a threat but an accelerator. It must be used responsibly and intelligently, because today’s youth will build the digital nation of tomorrow,” the expert emphasized.