Top government officials and development partners on Tuesday converged on the University of Lagos for the launch of the Artificial Intelligence University Innovation Pods (AI UNIPOD), an initiative designed to deepen digital skills and innovation among students.
The project, unveiled in Lagos, is aimed at equipping tertiary institutions with practical tools in artificial intelligence, while promoting innovation and driving socio-economic development.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima was represented at the event by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan, alongside the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme in Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, and other dignitaries.
Organisers said the AI UNIPOD initiative is structured to provide students and institutions with hands-on experience in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, while fostering innovation ecosystems within universities.
In her remarks, Attafuah emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the initiative.
She noted that partnerships between government, academia, and development organisations would be critical in unlocking the full potential of artificial intelligence for national development.
The event attracted key players from both the public and private sectors, reflecting growing interest in leveraging technology to address development challenges and create new economic opportunities.
