Robotics Artificial Intelligence Institute in Nigeria.
Nigeria is taking a significant step forward in technological advancement with the establishment of an institute dedicated to robotics and artificial intelligence.
Professor Bart Nnaji, founder and chairman of the Geometric Power Group, is spearheading this initiative.
Prof Nnaji is a former Minister of Science and Technology and later Minister of Power.
He announced the establishment of the institute during a lecture marking the upcoming 100th anniversary of Bigard Memorial Seminary in Enugu.
The lecture was held on Wednesday, the 27th of November, 2024.
The Institute’s Focus on STEM Education and Research.
The new institute will focus on the study and advancement of robotics and AI.
Offering certifications in intelligent machine technologies, autonomous systems design.
And also the development of intelligent algorithms with minimal human intervention.
Nnaji emphasized the need for Nigeria to prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education to drive the country’s development.
Additionally, Nnaji recommended that Bigard Memorial Seminary consider upgrading its academic programs.
Offering postgraduate degrees, and affiliating with Nigerian or international universities.
He encouraged the institution to explore becoming a full-fledged university after a century of existence, with a focus on enhancing academic standards.
Government Approval and Support For the establishment of a Robotics and AI institute.
The federal government has successfully scrutinised the institute through the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC),
The application for the institute was submitted in 2017.
Taking four years for the government to approve the project, recognizing its national importance.
Nnaji called on the Nigerian government to foster a competitive environment for global technology companies by focusing on the development of STEM talent.
World-Class Economics and Management Programs in Nigeria.
Nnaji also spoke about the importance of introducing world-class economics and management programs in Nigeria to enhance the country’s competitiveness.
He highlighted the success of companies like Nvidia, which made $15.3 billion in profits last quarter, in contrast to Nigeria’s annual earnings of $25 billion from crude oil.
Already Existing Robotics and AI Initiatives in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, existing initiatives like Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) are already making waves in the country.
RAIN offers training programs in robotics and AI, providing support and mentorship for researchers and designing and building automated systems for clients.
Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Institutes Opening Date.
Nnaji did not state when and where the institute would commence operations.
He however called on the Nigerian government to prioritise Science Technology Mathematics, and Engineering (STEM) subjects for Nigeria to leapfrog in developmental terms.
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