Infinix, a prominent African smartphone manufacturer, has teamed up with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to provide training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Programming for students at the University of Ibadan.
This hands-on practical training took place at the Infinix U.I. Resource Centre and aimed to inspire the next generation of Nigerian innovators while utilizing the new CogLabs modules.
Speaking at the event, Oluwayemisi Ode, the public relations manager for Infinix Nigeria, highlighted that this training builds on the strong relationship established with the University of Ibadan, fostering an environment that nurtures students’ technical, entrepreneurial, and academic abilities.
She emphasized that the new CogLabs modules in AI, Robotics, and Programming offer hands-on experiences, reinforcing Infinix’s belief in the potential of Nigeria’s youth as future innovators.
Furthermore, the training attracted top talent from the University of Ibadan, featuring experts and trainers from across Africa, with 30 students carefully selected from a pool of applicants for this highly sought-after program.
Dr. Eugene, a Kenya-born UNESCO trainer, elaborated on the workshop’s purpose, which is to ignite interest and expertise in AI, Robotics, and Programming to drive innovation and position Africa at the forefront of the STEM revolution.
“The objective of the training today is to introduce the basic aspects of robotics, AI, and machine learning,” Dr. Eugene stated. “We aim to equip the younger generation with skills in STEM, enabling them to become the future leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in Africa.”
Dr. Demola Lewis, the immediate past deputy Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Ibadan, described the partnership with Infinix and UNESCO as timely. He noted that the training aligns with the evolving demands of the workforce, enhancing education beyond traditional classroom settings.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to investing in training, and we are grateful that Infinix has taken the bold step to support the university,” he remarked. “Those who succeed in this training will play a crucial role in training others.”
Meanwhile, beneficiaries of the training which includes; Festus and Tijani Ruth, expressed their dedication to sharing the knowledge gained. Festus learned about the training through word of mouth and was drawn to it as a Google enthusiast.
He shared,
“The goal is that after today, I will also become a trainer, passing on the knowledge I gain.”
Tijani Ruth, a 200-level Computer Science student at the University of Ibadan, noted that the skills acquired would help address the shortage of experts in AI, Robotics, and Programming in Nigeria. “AI education is deficient in developing countries like Nigeria, and I hope to learn how to apply AI to everyday technologies and solve societal problems,” she said.
Reacting, Olumide, the Community Manager for Infinix Mobile Phone Users at the University of Ibadan, highlighted the significance of the training and its ripple effects on Nigeria’s tech landscape. According to him “the hope is to train trainers who will, in turn, educate others. We are selecting 30 students who have shown interest in STEM and AI to become trainers.”
Oluwayemis, Infinix public relations manager, however, encouraged the students to fully utilize the opportunities presented by the training, emphasizing their role as future leaders in technology and innovation in Nigeria.
“You represent Nigeria’s bright potential in the tech industry, and we are honoured to be part of your journey,” she concluded.
This partnership between Infinix and UNESCO marks a significant step toward enhancing STEM education in Nigeria, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
