UBA SANI AND ICT-DRIVEN KNOWLEDGE

 Taofeek Musa Abubakar writes that the Kaduna State governor has launched an initiative meant to bring AI to Hausa speakers across Nigeria

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has taken some giant steps that put the state firmly in the driver’s seat in the field of Information Communications Technology (ICT) in Northern Nigeria. With the disclosure recently during a stakeholders engagement on the draft “National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill” by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in Kaduna, it’s is obvious that Governor Uba Sani is way ahead of the lot in this area. 

Represented by the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs Patience Fakai, the governor revealed that his administration has trained over 5,000 women across the state in ICT by collaborating with Data Science Nigeria (DSN) and Google.Org in the “Arewa Ladies4Tech Initiative” across the state. The outcome, the governor said, is that “most of these ladies have become gainfully employed, some internationally, working remotely from the comfort of their homes”. 

But more fundamental is the revelation that Uba Sani has launched the AI4All Initiative that is meant to bring AI to Hausa speakers across Nigeria and beyond. It is important that this initiative be thoroughly examined to unearth possible advantages via a visits application for knowledge acquisition by youths and students in the state through series of short lessons on AI in Hausa language which are downloadable from NITDA site and can be shared by phone with others. And, here again, Governor Uba Sani has scored yet another first through the AI Hausa as the first of its kind in Africa. The question is what are the specific deliverables from Governor Sani’s initiative in this regard? 

In modern education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into knowledge gathering represents a remarkable advancement for societies worldwide. In Northern Nigeria, where access to quality education and resources has historically been challenged by socio-economic and cultural factors, the recent initiatives led by the Governor of Kaduna State spotlight the transformative potential of AI. By promoting ICT education centered around AI applications, particularly in the Hausa language, the governor is paving the way for enhanced educational opportunities for the youth and students of the region.

Northern Nigeria has long faced significant challenges in education, such as inadequate infrastructure, low literacy rates, and a lack of qualified teachers. The introduction of AI into knowledge gathering can help bridge these gaps by providing a more flexible and personalized learning experience. AI-powered platforms can adapt to individual learning styles and paces. By utilizing local languages like Hausa, AI tools can communicate complex concepts, making education more accessible and engaging for students. This localized approach ensures that educational materials are not just translated, but culturally relevant, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the content.

In this regard, the quality of education in Northern Nigeria can be significantly improved through AI-driven initiatives. These technologies can assist educators by providing analytics that identify areas where students struggle, allowing for tailored teaching methods that can address specific needs. Moreover, AI can offer diverse educational resources, from interactive lessons to gamified learning experiences that maintain student interest and motivation. This integration not only promotes a deeper understanding of subjects but also equips students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the modern workforce.

AI can significantly enhance access to educational resources, especially in remote and rural communities where educational facilities may be limited. Online platforms powered by AI can host vast libraries of information, courses, and materials that are accessible to anyone with internet connectivity. By incorporating local languages, such as Hausa, these platforms can ensure that students are not disenfranchised by language barriers. This democratization of knowledge allows even the most marginalized youths to engage with quality educational materials, thereby leveling the playing field.

Governor Uba Sani’s approach to ICT education is not just about content; it is equally about developing digital literacy skills among the youth. In a technology-driven world, the ability to navigate digital platforms and understand AI tools is crucial for future employment opportunities. By championing AI-driven knowledge, the government is investing in the future workforce of Northern Nigeria.

 Initiatives that teach students how to use AI technologies will empower them, giving them the skills needed to thrive in various fields such as data science, software development, and cyber security.

The introduction of AI into education can serve as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship in Northern Nigeria. As students become acquainted with AI technology, they also cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset that is essential for driving economic growth. AI education encourages creativity and the application of knowledge to solve real-world problems, which is crucial for developing innovative solutions tailored to local challenges. By supporting a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs, the region can look forward to economic diversification and job creation.

In a region like Northern Nigeria, where tradition is rich and cultures are unique, the incorporation of AI-driven knowledge gathering in the Hausa language serves a dual purpose. It not only addresses educational and economic needs but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage. AI can help document languages, stories, folklore, and traditions, ensuring they are not lost to the passage of time. By engaging students with their cultural heritage through modern technology, Governor Uba Sani’s initiatives help foster a sense of pride and identity. This cultural preservation is vital for reinforcing community values and connecting young individuals to their roots even as they navigate the complexities of modern society.

A multifaceted approach to education involving AI fosters collaboration among students, educators, and communities. AI systems that facilitate collaborative learning experiences can connect students from various backgrounds, allowing them to work on projects and share knowledge. This teamwork is not only a skill they will need in future workplaces but also a means to break down tribal and socio-economic barriers. The collaborative environment fostered by AI promotes social cohesion and empowers students to become change agents within their communities.

The shift towards AI-driven knowledge is more than an educational initiative; it has the potential to stimulate overall regional development. By equipping the youth of Kaduna State with advanced knowledge and skills, the government is nurturing a generation capable of contributing to various sectors, including technology, agriculture, health, and governance. This shift can lead to greater innovation, increased productivity, and improved public services. In turn, these developments can help attract investments to the region, creating job opportunities and enhancing the local economy.

In conclusion, the leadership of Governor Uba Sani in integrating AI-driven knowledge gathering within Northern Nigeria’s educational framework signifies a forward-thinking approach to confronting historical challenges. By focusing on ICT education in local languages, promoting digital literacy, and emphasizing cultural preservation, these initiatives can transform the educational landscape, empower youth, and unlock untapped potential. In a world increasingly governed by technology, the embrace of AI not only enhances access to knowledge but also equips the youth of Northern Nigeria with the tools they need to thrive, fostering a new generation of informed, skilled, and capable individuals who hold the key to unlocking a promising future for their communities and the entire region.

 Abubakar, an ICT Specialist, writes from Abuja