The Nation Newspaper

Category: Campus Life

  • NAPS, NANCES, NAUS clarify alleged marginalisation of CNG buses

    NAPS, NANCES, NAUS clarify alleged marginalisation of CNG buses

    The joint leadership of National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES) and the National Association of University Students (NAUS) has clarified recent petition alleging unequal distribution of CNG buses among student community.

    The trio association representing interest of Polytechnic, University and College of Education students in Nigeria and diaspora appealed to other (National Excos) of NANS to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and settle their differences.

    A statement jointly signed by NAPS National President, Com. Ridwan Munirudeen, NANCES National President, Com. Eegunjobi Samuel, and NAUS National President, Com. Josiah Oche explained the sharing formula of the CNG buses was just and fair to all structures and organs of NANS, saying interest of Polytechnics, Universities and Colleges of Education was captured in the sharing formula.

    According to the trio, one CNG bus each was given to the three sister bodies for fairness and transparency, adding that all NANS Coordinators will be given one each to be operating within their zones.

    The statement reads: “All the National Executives of NANS should eliminate the sense of entitlement, rooting for individuals to be beneficiaries, rather we advised them on focusing on how to manage those buses that has been given to their respective secretariats and zones, afterall, all National executives belong to one zone or the other.

    “All aggrieved member of the National Executives and that of Senate Arm should channel their grievances to the National President and Senate President respectively, we enjoin them to embrace peaceful discussion to settle the pressing issues amicably and off the media.

    “We reaffirmed to the public that, the buses were shared inline with the tradition of NANS, so as to capture the interest of the structures and organs (Sister bodies & Zonal Coordinators) of the body (NANS).

    “The transparency of the leadership of NANS under Comrade Lucky Emonefe and Sen. Akinteye Babatunde is not only limited to the fairness distribution of CNG buses alone, but extended to other palliative and good gesture coming directly from the Federal Government and other government agencies to the students community.

    Read Also: Fed Govt deploys CNG buses for airport shuttle

    “The public should know that the trio (NAPS, NAUS & NANCES) are the highest critics of NANS National whenever their action or inaction is against the interest of Nigerian Students, but on the distribution of CNG buses and other palliatives, we must commend the current administration of NANS, they have done well and we are proud of their fairness distribution within the organs and structures of NANS.

    “The structures of NANS is beyond only National Executives and Senate Arm. It’s imperative to know that sister bodies such as NAPS, NAUS and NANCES are also structures of NANS while Six (6) Zonal Coordinators (representing each zones) and 37 JCC Chairmen (representing each state including FCT) are also organs of NANS.”

  • Oke-Ogun Polytechnic management felicitates spokesman at 40

    Oke-Ogun Polytechnic management felicitates spokesman at 40

    The management of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki (TOPS), has felicitated with Public Relation Officer of the institution, Adebayo Samson, otherwise known as ‘MC Mirinda’, on his 40th birthday.

    The management described the celebrator as a man of unique dexterity with a string of accomplishments in the media and beyond to show for his efforts.

    A congratulatory statement by the Rector of the institution, Dr. Sikiru Ajibola noted that the celebrator has made immense personal sacrifices for the growth of the The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki and gives his best always. 

    While commending Adebayo’s sense of duty and tenacity of purpose, the Rector appreciated his steadfastness and dedicated service over the years for the development of the institution.

    He applauded the celebrator for the courage and untainted loyalty manifested in his conduct, celebrating not just the passage of time that his new age reflects but also the incredible values of his contributions.

    He said: “On behalf of the management of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic Saki, we felicitate with our PRO, Mr Adebayo Samson also known as MC Mirinda on the occasion of his 40th birthday anniversary.

    “We sincerely commend your personal sacrifices for the development of our institution. You are very reliable, dependable and trustworthy. And we pray your birthday offers a great reminder of how resourceful and beneficial you are to a good course.”

  • Niger’s Constant Chest Bumping of Nigeria

    Niger’s Constant Chest Bumping of Nigeria

    By Olawale Lawal, PhD

    Let me play the devil’s advocate because personally I do not believe in my opening remarks, but merely preparing the grounds for counterarguments to my treatise. Republic of Niger has been on Nigeria’s neck in the past few days raising accusations and putting Nigeria on the defensive by accusing her of having sinister objective and mission to destabilize the military government in her country. In fact, Niger has pushed further to claim that Nigeria is forging a military pact with France to ensure a demilitarized system of government in the country. Niger’s rascal vulgarity is coming on the heels of the recent visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to France, and many bilateral agreements that followed the visit, both real and imagined. Niger may have its point, after all, she just exited ECOWAS following the intervention of the regional organization in her political system.  Niger climbed aboard the undemocratic blitz which hitherto had engulfed both Mali and Burkina Faso, symbolizing not just endorsement of military rule, but its proliferation in the region. ECOWAS, which has a subregional supranational obligation to restore democracy, swung into action but to the chagrin of the trio who responded by exiting the organization in utter display of disregard of any consequences.

    At another level, Niger seriously frowns at the growing bilateral relations between Nigeria and France. Although known major agreement between Nigeria and France is the one on infrastructure and finance, Niger has been crying hoax that Nigeria has a military pact with France. Possible area of concern for Niger is that a military alliance between Nigeria and France could lead to the liquidation of the military junta in the country. Recall that France military pact with Niger was abrogated immediately after the current military regime seized power. Niger later insisted that France’s military base in the country must be dismantled; in fact, France was disgraced out of the Niger.

    To the brass tasks, the fulcrum of this intervention is how should Nigeria react to the latest umbrage from Niger. First tier response is that Nigeria should bear in mind that if the government of any neighbouring country has issue to grind with the Nigerian government, the first recipients of such government’s frustration will be the Nigerian citizens who live in the border areas or use the country as transit for humans and goods. Examples abound: during the Bakassi Peninsular debacle with Cameroun, Nigerians were maimed, harassed, and molested by the Gendarmes, before and after the ICJ judgment; during the Liberia Civil War, Nigerians in Liberia were subject of military and police actions. Tragically, Tayo and Chris (two Nigerian journalists) lost their lives. Ghana, South Africa, and Benin Republic etc. had at some points  created cycles of vengeance around Nigerians in their countries whenever Nigeria is considered to have overstepped her diplomatic authorities.

    Nigeria now has to double her efforts in countering insurgency, as the Nigerien authorities will likely allow insurgents to thrive around her frontiers bordering Nigeria. This is easy for Niger to do when one considers the vulnerability of the Sahara Desert to breeding of insurgent mercenaries. Niger holds firm control of border districts in Sebha (Libya), a notorious capital of all forms of crimes against any state. She could allow them passage to Agadez and then to Nigeria, just to reciprocate the perceived Nigeria’s aggression towards her. In addition to this is the alluring option for Niger to renege on all her regional security obligations to Nigeria as proof of her manifest vigorous opposition.

    Not a few unbridled discussants of international affairs have argued that Nigeria should not have strengthened bilateral relations with France at the time when Niger, her closest neighbour, just severed relations with her. Unfortunately, nations do not owe any other nations apologies for their foreign policy choices for the simple reason that foreign policy does not often preserve primordial goals when new and contemporary objectives can hold better leverage. And by the way, did Niger seek Nigeria’s consent before establishing military pact with France or was that military pact strategically suited for Nigeria when it was signed? Who made Niger a judge over Nigeria’s diplomatic determinations?  

    Niger’s constant and systematic chest bumps of Nigeria, if not checked, can be misconstrued as dominance. Her joining heads with Burkina Faso and Mali to exit ECOWAS is a demonstration of fearlessness considering her immediate contiguity to Nigeria ‐- at least, Burkina Faso and Mali can rely on other states shields in the event of Nigeria’s attack. Niger is acting as though there are no consequences for actions in international relations. Now, she is putting Nigeria on the defensive by daylight blackmails. And she is having a field day as Nigeria responds so passively by submission to this external antic.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Warri, Port Harcourt, seven other completed refineries in Nigeria

    To confront the current Niger’s diplomatic poking, Nigeria should take immediate action to further secure all her frontiers with Niger and, since she is transit of well-established nefarious and reprehensible transactions, Nigeria should step up more regulatory agencies around her borders with Niger. Nigeria should consider writing a petition to the International Court of Justice, (ICJ), at least, to serve as notification, in the event of the need for more compact action to be taken. Nigeria should realize that Niger’s greatest weapon against her is in the area of countering insurgents. Nigeria’s current success in countering insurgents has no technical input from Niger; even now, if she decides to act as a spoiler (as she has done with the Lukarawas), Nigeria will need to strengthen her position in the extant regional frameworks designed to combat insurgents. In the petition to the ICJ, Nigeria has the opportunity to refer to some of the security malefactors emanating from Niger, bearing in mind that a foreground is a crucial element in establishing cases at the ICJ. Economic sanctions should be applied with measure as Niger’s economy is not heavily reliant on Nigeria for survival. Regardless of that shortfall, Nigeria can flag the possibility of severing her petroleum pipeline and power supply agreements with Niger.

    Finally, exiting of ECOWAS by the trio and the constant bashing of Nigeria at the slightest provocation have put the country’s regional influence in disarray. Niger is emboldened by Nigeria’s lackluster responses. The effectiveness of foreign policy is when it is sufficiently crystallized in clear plans whether as response or strategy. Nigeria’s amorphous replies to Niger will not end her recalcitrance nor serve as deterrence to other would-be purveyors of diplomatic pummels against Nigeria. The time to act is now!

  • Arewa Stars Awards 2024: Teen innovator, others recognised for excellence

    Arewa Stars Awards 2024: Teen innovator, others recognised for excellence

    Sixteen-year-old Ammar Habibu, a pioneering hydrogen gas cooker innovator, was among the recipients of awards at the third edition of the Arewa 30 Under 30 Stars Award (ASA) held at the Tahir Guest Palace in Kano.

    The event was organized by Arewa Agenda, a subsidiary of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR) which publishes PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, in collaboration with Daily Nigerian.

    Jury Chairman, Mr. Sanusi Bature revealed that 457 nominations were received from the 19 Northern states. The diverse demographics included secondary school students, university undergraduates, career professionals, and social entrepreneurs.

    “The selection process was competitive. Initially, three nominees were shortlisted for each of the 30 categories, totaling 90 candidates in the first round. Based on their drive and impact, the judges then selected the ultimate winner in each category,” he said.

    On the panel of judges were an academic, Dr. Auwal Khalil, development filmmaker Ameen M. Auwal, leadership coach Amina Ibrahim Idris, journalist Aisha Lawal and public relations expert Adnan Mukhtar Adam.

    Umar Audu, whose investigative work exposed fake certificate syndicates in Cotonou, Benin Republic, won the Media Category; Lawan Bukar Maigana won the Humanitarian Award for relief efforts during the Maiduguri flooding disaster; Auwal Dankode won the Honesty and Integrity Award for returning a missing $10,000.

    Saidu Abdurrahman won the Excellence in Photography Award for achieving a Guinness World Record; Mohammed Idris won the Engineering Award for innovative contributions to electric motorcycles; Muhammad Bello Buhari was awarded for social activism; Auwal Adam Sansan was named Social Media Influencer of the Year.

    The Youth Society for the Prevention of Social Vices and Infectious Diseases (YOSPIS) was recognized for its peace and youth development initiatives; Amb. Adesuwa Udo, President of EL’s Empowerment Foundation, was honored for her developmental efforts across Northern Nigeria.

    Other awardees: Hafsat Gambo Lawan (Entrepreneurship); Umar Aminu Umar (Education); Ali Ibrahim Musa (Agriculture); Fatima Shehu Kafanchan (Hospitality); Umar Sanusi Garba (Legal); Dr. Sharu Rabiu Ahlan (Youth Development); MGK Healthcare (Health Impact) and Dala Foods (Excellence in Service).

    Read Also: Arewa group urges governors to emulate Ebonyi’s N150,000 Christmas bonus to workers 

    In a presentation titled “Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development,” Dr. Musa Sufi emphasized the potential of AI across various fields, such as medicine and education, while calling for localized research to address challenges associated with its application.

    IMPR CEO/Editor-in-Chief of PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib, articulated the purpose of the event: “This gathering is to honor young talents from Northern Nigeria who are making significant contributions in their respective fields.”

    ASA convener, Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, highlighted the significance of recognizing individuals and organizations that exemplify dedication, innovation, and excellence. “Today, we celebrate their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to making a difference,” he said.

  • University of Ibadan dons develop AI-powered sign language device

    University of Ibadan dons develop AI-powered sign language device

    Four University of Ibadan lecturers have developed the Digital Gesture Assistant Device, an Artificial Intelligence-powered tool designed to bridge communication gaps between the hearing-impaired and the hearing world. This innovative device enables bidirectional communication through three key functionalities: translating speech into sign language, interpreting sign language into spoken words using an AI-powered camera and enhancing voice clarity through a feature called “Gesture Link.”

    The development, led by Dr. Adeniji Oluwashola David and inspired by the 2022/2023 TETFAIR program, involves computer science, medicine and education experts. Team members include Dr. Adebolajo Adeyemo, an ENT surgeon; Prof. Bolanle Oladejo, an AI and software engineering specialist; and Dr. Udeme Samuel Jacob, an expert in special education.

    The project’s genesis can be traced back to Dr. Adeniji’s participation in the TETFAIR program, a platform encouraging technological solutions for societal challenges. In 2024, his proposal for an AI-driven communication tool attracted a multidisciplinary team, leading to the creation of a functional prototype. The prototype translates sign language into spoken words and supports multiple local Nigerian languages which makes them accessible to diverse communities, thereby promoting inclusion on a national scale. This device empowers hearing-impaired individuals to engage fully in education, employment and social interactions.

    As the team refines the device for mass production, this groundbreaking achievement emphasizes the power of innovation and collaboration in breaking communication barriers and transforming lives. The Digital Gesture Assistant Device signifies a monumental step towards inclusivity for Nigeria’s deaf community. 

  • Seven In-Demand Tech Careers to Pursue

    Seven In-Demand Tech Careers to Pursue

    The tech industry continues to grow unprecedentedly, offering diverse opportunities for those eager to shape the future. With technological advancements influencing every aspect of life, tech careers remain among the most rewarding and sought-after paths. Here are seven in-demand tech careers you should consider, as well as insights into what makes them so appealing.

    1. Software Engineer

    As the architects of the digital era, software engineers are indispensable in creating and maintaining the software we use daily. They design, develop, and test applications ranging from mobile apps to complex operating systems. Success in this field requires proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript, along with a solid understanding of algorithms and software development methodologies, which were used to create platforms like https://www.newzealandcasinos.io/. With businesses across all industries relying on custom software solutions, the demand for skilled software engineers shows no sign of slowing down.

    2. Data Scientist

    Data scientists play a pivotal role in helping organizations make informed decisions in a data-driven world. They analyze vast datasets to extract actionable insights, solve complex problems, and predict trends. This career combines programming, mathematics, statistics, and data visualization skills. Familiarity with tools like Python, R, SQL, and machine learning frameworks is critical. As companies increasingly rely on data to drive innovation, data scientists remain among the most sought-after professionals in the tech industry.

    3. Cybersecurity Specialist

    The need for cybersecurity specialists has skyrocketed with the rise in cyberattacks and data breaches. These professionals design, implement, and maintain robust security protocols to protect sensitive information and systems from cyber threats. A background in computer science, information technology, or network security is essential, along with certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). Cybersecurity specialists are crucial in ensuring the safety and trustworthiness of digital systems in an interconnected world.

    Read Also: Visa hosts 23 innovators at Africa fintech accelerator

    4. Cloud Engineer

    Cloud computing has revolutionized how organizations store and access data, making cloud engineers integral to modern IT infrastructures. These professionals design, deploy, and maintain cloud systems, ensuring scalability, performance, and security. Expertise in platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud is key to succeeding in this role. As businesses migrate operations to the cloud, the demand for cloud engineers will only grow.

    5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer

    Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries, and AI engineers are at the forefront of this revolution. They develop intelligent systems capable of learning, reasoning, and decision-making using machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and computer vision. A strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming and experience in frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch is essential. AI engineers drive innovation in areas like autonomous vehicles, healthcare diagnostics, and virtual assistants, making this a highly impactful career.

    6. User Experience (UX) Designer

    User experience (UX) is a critical component of digital success, and UX designers are the creative minds behind intuitive and engaging digital products. They conduct user research, design prototypes, and test interfaces to ensure products effectively meet user needs. A background in design, psychology, or human-computer interaction, coupled with proficiency in tools like Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma, is beneficial. As businesses strive to create seamless user experiences, the role of UX designers continues to gain prominence.

    7. DevOps Engineer

    DevOps engineers are vital in bridging the gap between software development and IT operations. They streamline workflows, automate processes, and improve the efficiency of software delivery. Proficiency in coding, system administration, and tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins is essential. DevOps professionals ensure faster deployment, reliable software updates, and a collaborative environment, making them indispensable in today’s agile-driven development landscape.

    Conclusion

    Choosing a career in technology offers the potential for innovation, personal growth, and substantial financial rewards. Whether you’re designing software, safeguarding digital assets, or creating user-centric designs, these in-demand tech careers provide the foundation for a thriving professional journey. With dedication and a commitment to learning, the possibilities in the tech industry are virtually limitless.

  • UNILORIN wins NOA North-Central campus debate, advances to national final

    UNILORIN wins NOA North-Central campus debate, advances to national final

    University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has emerged North-Central champion of the 7 for 7 National Values Charter Campus Debate organised by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to inspire Nigerian youth to embrace national values and civic responsibility.

    UNILORIN clinched the award at an event on Thursday, 28th November at the Admiral Mohammed Lawal Multipurpose Hall in Kwara State Polytechnic.

    In his welcome address delivered by Tolu Meduna, the Director General, NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu noted that the inter tertiary institution debate is a continuation of efforts by the Agency to engage younger Nigerians towards patriotism and unite hearts and minds toward a shared vision of progress and national pride.

    The Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic Dr Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, represented by the Deputy Rector Academics, Dr Mrs Felicia Awolola also commended NOA for the laudable initiative and promised to promote the ideals of the values charter beyond the programme.

    Representatives from Kwara State Polytechnic and University of Ilorin competed in the debate, dissecting the thought-provoking topic: “7 for 7 National Values Charter: Striking the Balance Between Government Promises and Citizens’ Responsibilities in Nation-Building.”

    Read Also: Unilorin begins 2024/2025 pre-admission screening

    The debate highlighted compelling arguments on the interplay between governance, civic duty and personal responsibilities and it was another. 

    Representing the Kwara State Polytechnic was the duo of Lanre Idris Mustapha  and Bankole Yusuf Williams of Mass Communication Department while University of Ilorin was represented by Alex Olafisoye and Alex Tivlumun of Law and Communication Information Sciences.

    The panel which comprised the NOA Kwara Director Alh Dare Abdulganiyu, Dr Reuben Akano of Kwara State University, Mrs Omokanye, College of Education Oro and Dr. Ogunmodede Busola, Regional Director, StrengthAfrica, after a thorough assessment awarded University of Ilorin the championship title for the North Central zone earning the team a ₦5,000,000 prize and a coveted ticket to the grand finale.

    The sum of N2m was awarded Kwara State Polytechnic as the runner up in the debate 

    Interestingly, the event extended beyond the debate, featuring a robust capacity-building segment led by distinguished facilitators. These sessions equipped participants with valuable skills and insights:

    Oluseye Taiwo Adepoju, a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, delivered an inspiring session on leadership and personal development. He urged participants to harness their strengths to drive societal transformation.

    Dr. Adebusola Ogunmodede, also took a session, highlighting the importance of mental resilience and emotional intelligence in achieving both personal and societal goals.

    Tolu Meduna, the programme Coordinator highlighted the initiative’s scope, revealing that similar debates will be held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with a winner selected in a live broadcast at the grand finale.

    The event brought together students, professionals and dignitaries, who applauded the initiative as a pivotal step toward a value-driven and new Nigeria.

  • FUOYE Senate passes vote of confidence in VC Fasina

    FUOYE Senate passes vote of confidence in VC Fasina

    The Senate of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has unanimously passed a Vote of Confidence in Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, applauding his exemplary and progressive administration.

    It recognised his leadership for driving significant growth and development across the university. 

    The motion, moved by Professor Ayodele Fajimi, Dean of the Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies, and seconded by Professor Bifatife Olufemi Adeseye, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, received unanimous endorsement with a loud ovation during the Senate meeting on Wednesday  November 27, 2024.

    The Senate expressed concerns over unsubstantiated allegations against the Vice-Chancellor and the university management by a faction of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) led by Mr Benjamin Faleye.

    According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media Matters to Fasina, Dr Wole Balogun, the allegations, disseminated through sensational media publications, were condemned as damaging and unprofessional. 

    The Senate highlighted the importance of staff adhering to institutional rules and conducting themselves with decorum, noting that such actions harm the university’s reputation and progress. It ordered probe into the the activities of Benjamin Faleye and his colleagues. 

    In addition to reaffirming confidence in Fasina’s leadership, the Senate approved a letter of commendation for the immediate past Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Engineer Kayode Olubunmi Ojo, acknowledging his significant contributions to the university’s development. 

    The Senate was also informed of the recent appointment of Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN) as the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.

    Read Also: FUOYE denies claims of misconduct by ex-VC

    Regarding staff welfare and development, the Senate was apprised of several management initiatives designed to enhance staff well-being. 

    These include a 50% tuition fee rebate for staff enrolled in part-time programmes at the university and a 20% fee reduction for up to two biological children of tenured staff, both set to commence in the 2025/2026 academic session. 

    The Senate was also informed of plans to introduce an end-of-year welfare package for staff and to procure another staff bus to support subsidised transportation for university employees.

    The management further announced the promotion of 35 professors and readers, who were formally recognised during the meeting. 

    Additionally, the newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, was warmly welcomed, marking the commencement of his tenure with Council’s approval.

    The Senate celebrated FUOYE’s recent achievements, including its recognition as the 10th best university in Nigeria and 38th in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. This upward trajectory was applauded as a testament to the effective leadership of Professor Fasina and his team.

    In response to the allegations against the Vice-Chancellor, the Chairman of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) at FUOYE, Mr Babafemi Babasola, distanced his union from the claims made by the Faleye-led SSANU faction.

     He reiterated NAAT’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and progressive campus environment. Mr Babasola also urged management to address the outstanding issue of 37 months’ arrears for operational hazard allowances, which had accrued from the previous university administration.

    Babasola expressed confidence in Professor Fasina’s ability to address the issue promptly, stating: “My members and I are neither involved in nor supportive of the unfounded allegations against the Vice-Chancellor. As union leaders, our primary responsibility is to safeguard the welfare of our members while working collaboratively with university management to foster progress.”

    With the Senate’s steadfast backing and the management’s ongoing commitment to staff welfare, FUOYE remains well-positioned to maintain its trajectory of growth and excellence under Professor Fasina’s leadership.

  • Foundation empowers best graduating student with N2.7m from Togo varsity

    Foundation empowers best graduating student with N2.7m from Togo varsity

    Prof. Chris Imumolen (PCI) Foundation has awarded a cash gift of 1 million CFA (approximately N2.7 million) to Amaobi Precious, the best graduating student at the 2024 convocation ceremony of the prestigious Global Wealth University in Lomé, Togo.

    Amaobi, who received a tuition-free scholarship throughout her studies, expressed her surprise and gratitude upon learning of the award.

     “I never expected it. This cash prize is such a pleasant surprise. I am incredibly grateful to Prof. Imumolen and the university for making this possible. 

    “The opportunity to study at this institution has been nothing short of a privilege,” he said.

    In her message to fellow students, Amaobi encouraged them to stay focused on their academic pursuits.

     “Excellence comes with hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose,” she said.

     “I urge all students to stay committed and not lose sight of their goals, no matter the challenges.”

    The convocation ceremony took place simultaneously in both Togo and Ghana, with the Nigerian leg set to hold next week.

    Read Also: As MicCom Foundation for bursaries, scholarships returns

    Prof. Chris Imumolen, the founder of PCI Foundation and Vice Chancellor of Global Wealth University, addressed the graduates, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to nurturing leaders equipped to confront the pressing challenges of the world.

    “The world is facing economic crises, technological disruptions, and many nations are advancing toward the fourth industrial revolution,” he remarked. 

    “In Africa, we need leaders who are prepared to tackle these challenges.”

    He continued, highlighting the university’s focus on holistic development. 

    “At Global Wealth University, we are not only preparing our students to excel academically but also to acquire top-notch professional skills,” Prof. Imumolen added. 

    “We’ve made professional training compulsory for every student as part of our curriculum, ensuring they are not just job seekers but solution providers.”

    The Vice Chancellor also unveiled plans to provide graduates with access to funding, enabling them to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and contribute to Africa’s development.

    “This is part of our commitment to ensuring that our graduates are not only academically outstanding but also have the resources to build impactful careers and businesses,” he concluded.

  • UNESCO CogLabs workshop in UI showcases tech partnerships, student empowerment

    UNESCO CogLabs workshop in UI showcases tech partnerships, student empowerment

    The University of Ibadan was the focal point of a landmark event as it hosted the UNESCO CogLabs Project Workshop at the state-of-the-art Infinix ICT Resource Centre.

    The workshop, attended by faculty members, partners, students, and distinguished guests, underscored a shared commitment to advancing technology education and innovation.

    Welcoming the attendees, Oluwayemisi Ode, PR Manager for Infinix Nigeria, highlighted the occasion as a testament to the growing collaboration between Infinix, UNESCO, and the university.

    Ode emphasised the significant progress made since the renovation of the ICT Resource Centre, which has become a hub for nurturing the technical, entrepreneurial, and academic capabilities of students.

    “By investing in this facility, Infinix aims to empower students with state-of-the-art tools and skills necessary for success in today’s digital world,” Ode stated. In addition, select students have been provided with IT placement opportunities at Transsion Holdings, Infinix’s parent company, to enhance their practical learning and industry readiness.

    A major highlight of the workshop was the introduction of new CogLabs modules focusing on artificial intelligence, robotics, and programming. These modules are designed to give students hands-on experience and bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application.

    Ode noted, “We believe that Nigeria’s youth are not just beneficiaries of technology—they are the innovators who will drive tomorrow’s advancements.”

    The collaboration between Infinix, the University of Ibadan, and partners like UNESCO and Google reflects a shared vision of building a future driven by technologically proficient leaders.

    Ode reiterated the importance of such alliances in fostering innovation and skill development across Nigeria, aiming to create a wider impact that stretches beyond the university.

    Addressing the students, Ode encouraged them to make full use of the resources and opportunities provided by the ICT Resource Centre and the CogLabs mobile application.

    “You represent Nigeria’s bright potential in the tech industry, and we are honored to be part of your journey,” she said, inspiring students to leverage these resources as stepping stones toward innovation and leadership in the tech sector.

    Read Also: MILID Foundation, UNESCO to mark 2024 Global MIL Week in Kano

    In a strong endorsement of initiatives aimed at youth development, Dr. Demola Lewis, the immediate past Dean of Students Affairs at University of Ibadan praised the collaborative efforts of Infinix and the UNESCO CogLabs Project Workshop.

    He highlighted that the workshop marks a significant step forward in preparing students and young people for the future.

    Dr. Lewis commended the program’s forward-thinking approach, emphasizing that such initiatives are vital in equipping the next generation with the necessary skills to navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape.

    “This partnership is not just an event but a pivotal step in shaping future leaders and innovators,” he stated.

    The UNESCO CogLabs Project Workshop, supported by tech giant Infinix, focuses on blending advanced technology and educational methodologies to foster critical thinking, creativity, and technological fluency among students.

    These skills are becoming increasingly essential in a world where digital literacy is as crucial as traditional education.