In a groundbreaking collaboration between UNESCO and Infinix, Nigerian students at the University of Ibadan are being equipped with the skills they need to thrive in a future with rapidly advancing technology. The ambitious project aims to train at least 10,000 students across the country in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics.
The latest development saw 30 students from various departments at the University of Ibadan undergo training at the UNESCO-Infinix 3D AI and Robotics Training CogLabs Workshop. These students will now be equipped with the necessary kits and tools to become trainers themselves, responsible for sharing their knowledge with other students and members of the community.
Olumide Adeloju, the community manager of Infinix X Club, explained the purpose of the workshop, saying, “The essence is to spread the knowledge of AI and Robotics and to solve the problems that we have in Nigeria, using AI, machine learning, and robotics to ensure that young Nigerians, mainly students, use the opportunity to solve their immediate problems.” He emphasized that the program aims to empower young Nigerians to address the challenges they face by leveraging the power of technology.
This initiative marks the first time such an event has taken place at the University of Ibadan, although similar programs have been implemented at the University of Nairobi in Kenya. With the support of organizations like UNESCO, Infinix, and Google, efforts are being made to both spread awareness and provide practical training in AI and Robotics.
Oluwayemisi Ode, the public relations manager for Infinix Nigeria, encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunities this partnership presents. She urged them to fully utilize the resources available to them, including the ICT Resource Centre and the CogLabs mobile application.
The significance of this collaboration cannot be overstated. As advancements in AI and Robotics continue to reshape industries and economies around the world, it is crucial that students have access to the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly evolving landscape. By investing in the education and training of young Nigerians, UNESCO and Infinix are bridging the skills gap and preparing the youth for a future where AI and Robotics will play an increasingly prominent role.
In the words of Olumide Adeloju, “We are not just offering training to students; we are empowering them to become trainers themselves. This multiplier effect will ensure that the knowledge of AI and Robotics reaches a wider audience, allowing more individuals to benefit from these transformative technologies.” This approach not only cultivates a deeper understanding of AI and Robotics within the community but also fosters a sense of ownership and agency amongst the students.
With Nigeria being one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, equipping its youth with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age is paramount. Initiatives such as the UNESCO-Infinix partnership are instrumental in closing the skills gap and providing opportunities for young Nigerians to excel in an AI-driven future.
As the program continues to expand and impact more students, the hope is that these empowered trainers will not only be able to solve immediate challenges but also drive innovation and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s AI and Robotics sector. The collaborative efforts of UNESCO, Infinix, and other partners are paving the way for a future where Nigerian students are at the forefront of technological advancements, making tangible and lasting contributions to their communities and the world at large.
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