In an effort to empower youths for self-employment and promote technical and entrepreneurship skills, the federal government has announced plans to train over 500,000 youths across Nigeria in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative, spearheaded by Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, was revealed during a laptop and online course license distribution event at Government Science and Technical College, Garki, Abuja.
Arogundade highlighted that the initiative, approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and supported by the private sector, aims to enhance the skills of the nation's workforce from the current 15 percent to 50 percent. The distribution of laptops and online courses marks the pilot phase of this initiative, which will eventually be expanded nationwide.
The students involved in the pilot scheme will undergo a six-month online course in basic skills of AI and robotics. "We are giving 50 students online course outlines—25 in artificial intelligence and 25 in robotics," Arogundade explained. She emphasized that the students will progress through different stages of the course, taking quizzes to advance and ultimately earn certifications upon completion.
Arogundade also pointed out the importance of catching up with global advancements in robotics and AI, noting that countries like Germany, the USA, Korea, and Japan have made significant strides in these fields. Following this pilot, similar initiatives will be rolled out to other institutions, starting with Yaba College of Technology.
Engr. Mohammed Yusuf, Director of Technical and Vocational Education at NBTE, urged students to stay focused and take full advantage of the program, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship education.
Private sector partner representative Professor Babatunde Alao underlined the significance of AI in today's world, asserting Nigeria's potential as a hub for technological advancements in Africa. He noted the collaborative effort between Lorenzo International, White Cloud, and the office of the SSA to the President on Vocational Studies in driving this initiative.
Dr. James Kuta Musa, Principal of Government Science and Technical College, expressed gratitude for the selection of his students for the project and encouraged them to make the most of the provided resources and training.
