The league shall be known as SmartCity Osun State Football League.

SmartCity Osun State Football League promises to deliver huge followership across the state and massive viewership across the planet via social media and web platforms.

The FAs broadcast partner, Blackdrum TV will ensure live coverage of major matches both on the Web and cable television networks.

The Osun FAs data Partner, Ixzdore will ensure that the League maintains players’, clubs’, and matches’ historical and live data.

From the data, we will generate statistics and analytics useful for player and club ratings that will help in player transfers and facilitate proper trickle-down of transfer payments.

The raw and analytical data will also be available for clubs, analysts, broadcasters, and betting companies.

32 grassroots football clubs have registered for the Under 17 League and have been divided into four conferences.

Two teams will emerge from each of the conferences and proceed to Super 8, where the eventual winners will emerge.

Over 700 young players will participate in the league, featuring 12 weekly matches across 15 football grounds approved for the league matches.

Sir Demola Aladekomo, chairman of SmartCity plc said:

Football is a truly global sport, a unifying factor in many communities and nations across the world. The spirit of competition, fair play, and sparking the passions of a global audience, are all values we share at SmartCity. That is why we are proud to be the first title sponsor of the tournament and we look forward to a long-term partnership to support and connect fans to their teams across Osun State and beyond

Sola Fanawopo, Chairman of Osun FA said: SmartCitys commitment to our league is evident, and securing such an iconic and forward-thinking lead partner for our League is great news for us, the fans, and for the whole state. The partnership will help us inspire interest in football from the private sector and allow us to continue our investment into the game at all levels.

The SmartCity Osun Football League will kick off on 13th February at the Osogbo Township Stadium.

AI is poised to revolutionize various industries, including education.

In this article, we will explore the role of AI in education, focusing on the future of work. We will also present case studies from Switzerland, the United States, and Nigeria to illustrate the potential of AI in education.

“In the digital age, AI is not just transforming the workplace; it is also revolutionizing education, empowering learners to personalize their learning experiences, receive real-time feedback, and adapt to individual needs. This AI-driven transformation is paving the way for a future where education and work are seamlessly intertwined, preparing individuals for the jobs of tomorrow,” Tolulope Ijitade. 

The Future of Work in the Digital Age

The digital age is characterized by rapid technological advancements, globalization, and an increasingly competitive workforce. 

These factors are transforming the nature of work, with many traditional jobs being replaced by automated processes or new roles requiring specialized skills. In this context, education plays a critical role in preparing individuals for the future of work. 

By providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge, education can help them thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing world.

The Role of AI in Education

AI has the potential to play a transformative role in education. AI-powered tools can personalize learning experiences, provide real-time feedback, and automate administrative tasks.

This can free up educators to focus on more meaningful interactions with students and provide them with the support they need to succeed.

Hazu.io: Revolutionizing Learning and Working in the Digital Age with AI-Powered Visual Learning

Switzerland, a global hub for AI innovation, is home to EdTech startups like Hazu, pioneering AI-powered solutions for education.

Hazu’s “Swiss Army Knife” platform delivers personalized learning experiences through its AI-powered feature, Hazu Genius.

Unlike traditional text-based AI models, Hazu Genius generates visual elements that can be organized into Mind Maps, Presentations, or even Geo Maps.

Andy Abgottspon, Hazu’s founder and CEO, envisions a world where technology empowers humanity rather than constrains it. Hazu’s visual-centric approach eliminates the complexities of traditional digital tools, allowing educators and innovators to create immersive digital worlds seamlessly integrating diverse data and content as visual building blocks.

Hazu’s impact extends beyond education, revolutionizing work in the digital age. By simplifying digital workflows, Hazu empowers individuals and organizations to work smarter, not harder, fostering innovation and productivity. 

Hazu’s AI-powered visual learning platform represents a paradigm shift in education and work, paving the way for a future where technology seamlessly enhances human potential.

The letters “SAMR” stand for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition, which outlines the different stages of digital transformation. The lower levels, Substitution and Augmentation, involve using technology as a direct replacement for traditional methods, with minor functional improvements. 

However, the true transformational power of technology lies in the higher levels, Modification and Redefinition.

Here, technology allows for significant task redesign and even the creation of entirely new tasks, leading to enhanced communication, collaboration, and learning.

AI-Powered Learning in the United States: Brilliant.org as an Example

The United States is also at the forefront of AI-powered education, with organizations like Brilliant developing innovative tools to enhance the learning experience. Brilliant’s interactive problem-solving platform uses AI to personalize learning paths, offer real-time feedback, and adjust to individual needs. 

With Brilliant, you can grasp math and computer science concepts in just 15 minutes a day through guided interactive lessons. Brilliant’s main strength is its approach that combines traditional problem-solving effectiveness with the engagement of interactive learning. 

AI plays a crucial role through Personalized Learning Paths, Adaptive Learning, and Conceptual Understanding. Platforms like Brilliant, powered by AI, showcase how AI can transform education, making learning personalized, effective, and engaging for everyone.

Unleashing AI’s Potential to Transform Education in Nigeria

Education is the driving force behind human development. Educators and educationists universally agree that education fosters desirable behavioral changes through teaching and learning. 

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is a land of immense potential, driven by a vibrant and resilient youth demographic. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, Nigeria’s youth are emerging as a powerful force for change, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit, innovative ideas, and unwavering determination. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense promise in revolutionizing Nigeria’s education system and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all.

Utiva.io, a leading tech education company, offers comprehensive data science and AI training and placement services, empowering individuals and organizations to excel in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Their programs equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the digital era. Utiva’s impact on the future of work and the AI data science proficiency of its graduates is profound. By empowering individuals with the necessary skills, Utiva is shaping the future of work and driving innovation in the data science and AI realms.

“Artificial intelligence has signaled the beginning of new era for education. AI adoption opens up new avenues for communication and collaboration between students, faculty, and administrators; streamlines administrative workflows; optimizes resource allocation; brings about personalized learning experiences and fosters innovation and future-ready skills among students. AI, for lack of better expression, offers boundless opportunities. It is reshaping the educational landscape for the better, hence the future is bright, and as educational institutions embrace AI, they embark on a journey to disrupt themselves for good”, Peter Oluka, editor at Techeconomy.

DSN.AI is also playing a vital role in shaping the future of education in the digital age. Their commitment to developing AI solutions that are tailored to the needs of emerging markets is helping to ensure that everyone has access to a quality education.

By providing localized data and low-end access technology, DSN.AI is helping to bridge the digital divide and make education more accessible and equitable for all. Their solutions have the potential to transform the educational landscape in emerging markets and around the world.

Regulation, Policy and Government involvements

The government has  an important role to play in redesigning education in the digital age and equipping their citizens for the future of work, in a data-driven AI Powered future.

In Nigeria, the Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani recently released a 31-page blueprint document that highlights the ministry’s plans for the transformative power of digital technology and innovation to strengthen the nation’s economy.

The document titled, ‘Accelerating our collective prosperity through technical efficiency,’ is said to be a critical launchpad in the journey “towards a Nigeria that thrives in the digital age,” Tijani stated in the preface. It is a detailed and progressive framework that encompasses five interconnected pillars which are: Knowledge, Policy, Infrastructure, Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Capital, and Trade.

In Switzerland, political and economic stability, highly skilled and global talents, and steady flow from universities and global employers like Google, IBM, Oracle, Hexagon, Sony etc, and the presence of big tech research centers, Universities and research with an international impact like IDSIA, IDIAP, ETH and EPFL,  business-friendly and pragmatic regulations in the field of new technologies, close and pragmatic cooperation between business and academia and other similar factors have  contributed to the Switzerland innovative strength and flourishing technological innovation ecosystem. 

Also, stable infrastructure is one of the basic prerequisites for education. Switzerland is ranked first for the 3rd time in a row for its Infrastructure at the World Competitiveness Ranking.

President Biden of the United States, recognizes the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and highlights the importance of responsible AI development. 

In October 2023, he issued an executive order focused on the safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of AI. The order mandates federal agencies to promote AI that is safe, secure, reliable, and unbiased. 

Additionally, it emphasizes increased investment in AI research and development. Biden’s stance underscores the need for government action in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the Intelligent Revolution, particularly in education, work, and equity.

AI-Powered Transformation: Empowering Youths for a Paradigm Shift

The Intelligent Revolution, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), is poised to revolutionize education and work in the digital age, and youths are at the forefront of this transformative wave. AI holds immense potential to enhance learning experiences, personalize instruction, and prepare individuals for the evolving demands of the workforce. 

By embracing AI, you can not only empower yourselves but also contribute to shaping a brighter future for all.

The world is rapidly changing, and AI is at the heart of this transformation. To thrive in this new era, it is crucial to equip yourselves with the knowledge and skills of AI. Learning AI will open doors to a world of possibilities, allowing you to:

1. Develop Innovative Solutions: AI is a powerful tool for innovation. By understanding AI concepts and techniques, you can harness its potential to solve real-world problems and create groundbreaking solutions.

2. Build Lucrative Startups: The AI industry is booming, creating a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs. By mastering AI, you can become the next generation of innovators, launching successful AI startups that shape the future.

3. Enhance Your Employability: AI is transforming various industries, creating a demand for AI-skilled professionals. By learning AI, you will become highly sought-after candidates, opening doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities.

Prepare for the Paradigm Shift: AGI and Beyond

As AI continues to evolve, it is essential to keep abreast of its advancements, particularly the development of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

AGI represents a paradigm shift, as it refers to AI that can perform any intellectual task that a human can. While AGI is still in its early stages, understanding its potential and implications is crucial for preparing for the future.

Embrace the Change: Become Catalysts of Innovation

The Intelligent Revolution is not just about technological advancements; it’s about embracing change and becoming catalysts of innovation. As AI permeates various aspects of society, it is up to the next generation of leaders to lead the way in shaping a future that is beneficial to all.

Empower Yourself: Unleash Your Potential

The future is yours to shape, and AI is the key to unlocking your potential. Embrace this transformative technology, learn its intricacies, and explore its limitless possibilities. Become the pioneers of AI, driving innovation, shaping the future, and leaving an indelible mark on the world.

“The Intelligent Revolution is not about replacing human workers with machines; it is about augmenting human capabilities and unleashing our potential. AI will play a crucial role in enhancing productivity, fostering innovation, and creating new opportunities in both education and work, leading to a more prosperous and equitable future for all.” Nonye Ekpe.

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Authors bios: Tolulope Ijitade, Nonye Ekpe, and Andy Abgottspon;

Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), the umbrella organization of all Information Technology professionals, interest groups and stakeholders in Nigeria, has taken a bold step to securing a better future even for kids with interest in technology.

The 45-year-old Organisation, on Tuesday April 17, 2023, unveiled Tech Minds Initiative that offers hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, and even tinyML engineering – giving your child the opportunity to become a tech prodigy at a young age.

While launching the Initiative, Professor Isa Pantami, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, emphasized that skill development and training helps instill emotional maturity in pupils.

Pantami, the author of the Book: ‘Skills Rather than Just Degrees’, applauded NCS for focusing on skills development as the most direct route for addressing the growing shortage of skilled manpower in the technology ecosystem.

The Minister who spoke through Sir ‘Demola Aladekomo, a computer engineer and chairman of SmartCity Resorts Plc., said Tech-Minds resonates with the Ministry’s agenda for Nigeria to attain 95% digital skills development by 2025.  

He encouraged research bodies, private and government institutions to partner with NCS towards robust implementation of the paradigm shift Initiative which aligns with leading educational and technological countries like the United States of America, Finland and India, amongst other countries.

Speaking in his capacity as the Co-chair at Tech-Minds launch, Sir Aladekomo pledged SmartCity’s support of the initiative. he said they will donate facilities in Oyo State and the FCT with others coming up in Lagos, to ensure Tech-Minds Initiative becomes a reality.

Professor Adesina Sodiya, the President, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), said over the years, the organization has concentrated, primarily, on developing members’ capacity at the level of professionals and students in tertiary institutions, hence kids have been left out of these educational programmes.

So, about three year ago we started looking in the direction of developing the Tech-Minds template, because all of the world we have seen what kids are doing. A Nigerian, at just 9-years-old, Basil Okpara, is reported to have built more than 30 mobile games. Like many others his age, Basil loves to play games but his fascination with gaming does not end at playing, his curious mind has led him into coding, leading him to come with dozens of game ideas. He is making a lot of money from those games now. Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) is very much interested in preparing our kids for the future; by developing, supporting and encouraging them”.

– Prof. Sodiya

“It is a fact that if most of our startup founders were tutored earlier about product development, and other tech skills, they would have performed better. There are lots of demised startups in our ecosystem which we have to find means to enable the upcoming generation of founders to perform better and do more for our nation. This is part of the foundation for Tech Minds”, he said.

Prof. Adesina said that NCS NEC has thrown the challenge to the State Chapters who have embraced it, wholeheartedly.

“We have developed the curriculum and comprehensive guidelines for hitch-free implementation. We have encouraged the State Chapters to move in collaboration with their respective State governments through the Ministries of Education, Science & Tech, SUBEB, for the implementation of Tech Minds and the feedback is already encouraging”, he added.

He said that the programme is targeted at young people between 6 to 16 years.

“As the umbrella body of IT professionals in Nigeria, we have to set the pace and continue to ensure that the nation does not have skilled manpower in the tech ecosystem. And Tech Minds is a credible platform to ‘catch them young’; that is, younger people who will be interested in joining and working with NCS.

He thanked Professor Isa Pantami, for chairing the occasion and for rallying the Ministry in support of NCS’ programmes.   

Interestingly, reports suggest that young people between the age of 0-14 make up over a quarter of the world’s population, and this group is only growing.

To this end, Prof. Florence Babalola, Chairperson, Education and Manpower Development Committee at NCS, said that Tech-Minds is one of the numerous programmes organized by NCS with the aim of enhancing human capacity for national development.

She reiterated that Tech-Minds Initiative is part of NCS’ commitment to advancing technology in Nigeria, especially among young people.

“The vision is to educate and empower young minds, adding that children need to be prepared to work in jobs and use technologies that don’t yet exist”, he said.

Prof. (Mrs.) Adenike Osofisan, the Immediate Past Provost, College of Fellows of NCS, has to this say about Tech-Minds:

“This programme gladdens my heart. I believe it will be handled very well starting from the States to the national level. I want to be part of this in Oyo State by monitoring the process. I am passionate about safeguarding and guiding the young people. The NEC under Prof. Sodiya has done very well and deserve every commendation and support they can get from the members”.

Others who spoke at the occasion applauded the Prof. Sodiya-led NEC for this initiative.

Mr. Kole Jagun, the President and Chairman of Council, Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) CPN – said that science and technology hold the key to sustainable development in the world and Africa in particular hence corollary is that prominence must be given to educating young people in tech in the early stages of their development.

He lauded NCS for the programme that focuses on hands-on activities as essential components of an early childhood setting in basic technology education which may help in laying an early foundation for life-long learning and acquisition of science process skills.

In her remarks, Shulammite Ayobami, Chairperson, Audit Committee, NCS, said: “The earlier we catch the younger ones, the better for us. Tech-Minds goes a long way to show NCS does not downplay the future of tech that will be driven by skilled young people”.

She further called for State Chapters’ buy-in into the initiative and pushed it further for the benefits of kids in their localities.

There are many young people who are ready to learn. It is our duty to direct them to the right path. And this is another means to redeem the image of our nation while nurturing young minds to add value to the respective families and the society at large”.

– Ayobami added

On his part, Ayodeji Rex Abitogun, Chairman, Conferences Committee & Member, National Executive Council. Nigeria Computer Society of NCC, said that the education committee has done well by coming up with the initiative.

Continuing, he said, “Sustainability of the programme is key, and the need to ensure NACOS members have access to the platform will help take it to the next level”.  

The session moderated by Mr. Adesegun Adekunle, the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), attracted guests from within and outside Nigeria who joined virtually to witness the epoch-making event.