Digital Skills: FG Trains 200,000 Nigerians On Artificial Intelligence

BY PATRICK WEMAMBU (With Agency Report)

Federal Government says it has trained no fewer than 200,000 Nigerians on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies in order to build a digitally-skilled workforce for the country.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, Tuesday at the 10th Annual Symposium and Awards of the American Chemical Society (ACS), Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter in Abuja.

The event was hosted by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) with the theme; “Advancing Sustainability through AI-Driven Chemistry.”

Speaking through Dr. Patrick Oghuma, Special Assistant to the Minister and Team Lead Technical & Administration, Project Delivery, Monitoring and Evaluation (PROD-ME) – Nnaji revealed that the Ministry was spearheading the formulation of a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, designed to provide a unified roadmap for ethical and inclusive AI adoption across the country.

He stressed that the training would position Nigeria as a continental leader in responsible AI innovation.

“Today, we find ourselves at the crossroads of a revolution where artificial intelligence and chemistry converge to create new frontiers; this powerful synergy offers a vision of the future in which innovation and sustainability work hand in hand.

“This gathering is a remarkable milestone that exemplifies our collective commitment to innovation and academic excellence.

“As we explore the theme of sustainability through AI-driven chemistry, let us remember that the future is not predetermined – it is shaped by our actions today.

“Chemists have a vital role to play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); however, many brilliant scientific contributions remain buried in journals or academic shelves, never reaching the industries or policymakers that could bring them to life.

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“The disconnect between research, application and policy is a critical issue; we must bridge this gap through transformational research that embraces AI, and is designed to solve real-world problems.

“Let me reiterate, chemistry is at the heart of the SDGs; no meaningful progress can be made without the contribution of this field, and this symposium provides a valuable opportunity to generate ideas that will strengthen our nation,” Nnaji concluded.

Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, in a speech maintained that the role of chemistry as a foundational science had never been more critical as the world grapples with complex global challenges like insecurity, banditry, climate change and so on.

Peters, was represented by Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, NOUN Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the event.

“It is the infusion of AI, with its power to model, predict, and optimise, that now opens new frontiers in reducing waste and energy consumption; optimising chemical processes and improving the development of more sustainable technologies and solutions.

“At NOUN, we are deeply committed to the ideals of accessible, Technology-Enhanced education and cutting-edger research that addresses national development and global goals.

“This symposium aligns perfectly with our institutional vision of fostering innovation that is both scientifically rigorous and socially responsible. Thus, as a practicing chemist, I am elated, albeit excited to be hosting this epoch-making event.

“The conversations during this symposium from AI-enhanced green chemistry to sustainable materials and smart manufacturing, should not just be seen as mere academic pursuit, but in addition, as essentials to building a resilient, knowledge-driven economy in Nigeria and across Africa,” Peters said.

Contributing to the theme of the symposium, Prof. Edu Inam, Chair, ACS Nigeria, expressed that the society had sustained efforts at organising campus events and outreach programmes to participate in research and mentorship activities.

Awards were given to deserving members of the society including Peters and the immediate past Chair, ACS Nigeria, Prof. Joshua Obaleye. (NAN).