The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has unveiled plans to collaborate with key agencies to advance the study of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. This initiative is part of TETFund’s broader vision to position Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation across Africa. Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, emphasized the importance of AI as a transformative field critical to the country’s future. He noted that while AI remains underdeveloped in Nigeria, the organization is committed to building capacity and fostering growth in this area. Echono highlighted that AI is one of the few disciplines for which TETFund still sponsors scholars for international training. “We don’t send anybody outside anymore. But AI is a new and expanding field. It is one of the few areas we are training people abroad because we want to lead in Africa,” he explained. In addition to training, TETFund has supported the development of AI-focused textbooks covering topics such as teaching applications, ethics, and curriculum design. These resources aim to help universities integrate AI into their teaching and learning processes effectively. Over the past two years, TETFund has trained more than 3,000 scholars in AI and other emerging ICT fields through partnerships with leading institutions. Additionally, over 17,000 educators have participated in the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) program to improve their digital literacy. Echono stressed that equipping teachers with ICT skills is essential for effective teaching in today’s digital world. “If the teacher is not ICT-savvy, even for him to put his lecture on the platform is a problem,” he said. The training also focuses on how educators can use ICT tools to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. TETFund is also making strides in robotics, aiming to catch up with global advancements despite being a late entrant in this field. “We want to leapfrog others in ICT and robotics. We are coming very strongly in robotics now,” Echono stated. In book development, Echono revealed significant progress since he assumed office in 2022. Under his leadership, TETFund has published 50 books in 2023 alone, more than double what was achieved over the previous 13 years, and another 60 books shortly afterward. An additional 50 books are currently in production. These efforts aim to address gaps in academic resources across various disciplines. Through its focus on AI, robotics, ICT training, and academic resource development, TETFund aims to ensure that Nigerian universities remain competitive on the global stage while preparing students for a tech-driven future.
AltSchool Africa launches AI education initiative to empower 10 million Africans
AltSchool Africa has unveiled an ambitious program, “AI for 10M Africans,” aimed at providing free artificial intelligence (AI) education to 10 million people across the continent. The initiative seeks to bridge the knowledge gap in AI, demystify the technology, and equip individuals with skills to integrate AI into their careers and daily lives. Speaking on the launch, Adewale Yusuf, CEO of AltSchool Africa, highlighted the urgency of preparing Africans for the AI-driven future. “AI is no longer a technology of tomorrow; it’s transforming industries and economies today. Through this initiative, we’re ensuring that Africans are not left behind in this global shift” – Yusuf, CEO AltSchool Africa The program is structured to cater to learners at all levels, starting with foundational courses that introduce AI concepts before progressing to advanced topics such as machine learning, data science, and AI engineering. It includes hands-on projects designed to give participants practical experience in real-world AI applications. Courses will be accessible online and offered in multiple languages, including English, French, Swahili, and Arabic. Foluso Folorunso, Project Lead for “AI for 10M Africans,” emphasized the broader vision behind the initiative. “This is more than an educational program, it’s a movement to foster innovation and create opportunities across Africa. By empowering millions with AI skills, we’re building a thriving ecosystem that positions Africans as contributors and leaders in the global AI space” – Folorunso The initiative also aims to address misconceptions about AI by breaking down complex concepts into engaging and relatable content. Strategic partnerships with universities, tech companies, and government agencies will support large-scale implementation. Certified learners will receive career support to apply their skills in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and finance. AltSchool Africa is calling on organizations, governments, and industry leaders to collaborate on this transformative project. Yusuf highlighted the importance of collective effort: “AI for 10M Africans is an opportunity for stakeholders to make a lasting impact by supporting education at scale, whether through sponsorships, mentorship programs, or employment opportunities for certified learners.” Christine Ashimwe, Business Developer for East Africa, stressed the need for policy action to integrate AI education into school curricula across the continent. “Our current education systems are preparing students for a world that no longer exists. Policymakers must act urgently to ensure Africa doesn’t miss out on this revolution” – Ashimwe The launch comes at a critical time when global AI adoption is accelerating. While concerns about automation’s impact on jobs persist, Yusuf reassured that preparation is key: “AI might not replace you, but people who use AI will replace you. We want Africans to understand their role in shaping this future.”
JAMB reschedules 2025 mock UTME to April 10
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has rescheduled the 2025 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) from April 5 to April 10, 2025, to enhance the examination experience and ensure thorough preparations. This decision, announced by JAMB’s Public Communications Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, aims to incorporate various innovations and accommodate an increased number of examination centers for the 2025 exercise. The main UTME remains unchanged, set to commence on April 25, 2025. Candidates participating in the mock exam are advised to stay alert for updates regarding the printing of their Mock Notification Slips, which will provide details about their examination centers. This optional mock exam allows candidates to familiarize themselves with the examination process and test the system’s efficiency before the main exam. Over 200,000 candidates have expressed interest in taking the mock UTME, with the overall UTME registration exceeding 2 million candidates. With these adjustments, JAMB continues to demonstrate its dedication to improving the overall quality of the UTME, providing candidates with the best possible conditions to succeed in their academic pursuits.
NABTEB modernizes exams with digital technology
The National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB) has announced plans to digitalize its examination processes. This initiative, spearheaded by the newly appointed Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohammed Aminu, aims to boost operational efficiency and curb malpractices. Speaking at NABTEB’s headquarters in Benin City, Dr. Aminu emphasized the importance of accelerating digitalization from registration to result processing and certificate issuance. This transformation will not only minimize errors but also enhance the overall efficiency of NABTEB’s operations. Key InitiativesExpanded Computer-Based Testing (CBT): NABTEB will transition more subjects to digital platforms, aligning with global trends and the increasing digital literacy among candidates. Enhanced Security Measures: The board will implement biometric verification, encrypted question papers, and real-time monitoring systems to prevent examination malpractices. Collaboration and Capacity Building: NABTEB will engage with schools, institutions, and industry partners to address challenges and improve the system. Staff welfare will be prioritized through capacity-building programs. This digital transformation is part of a broader strategy to make NABTEB examinations internationally competitive and to support Nigeria’s economic diversification and industrial growth. The move is expected to strengthen public confidence in NABTEB certificates and enhance the credibility of its examinations.
NELFUND introduces software to enhance loan access for students with disabilities
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced plans to introduce specialized software aimed at ensuring students with disabilities in higher institutions can fully benefit from its loan scheme. This development was revealed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, during a stakeholders’ engagement on student loans held in Benin City, Edo State. Sawyerr highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the loan scheme, emphasizing that the Act establishing NELFUND guarantees equal opportunities for all students. He disclosed that the agency would collaborate with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to develop solutions that make the application process more accessible. “We want to see how we can make it easier for those visually impaired so that they can actually apply for the loan. We are looking at a specific software we are going to use,” Sawyerr stated. Addressing concerns about loan repayment, Sawyerr clarified that if a loan beneficiary passes away, their debt will not be transferred to their family or anyone else. Instead, the loan will be completely cancelled, as stipulated by law. Additionally, the loan scheme is designed to be nearly free, with zero interest rates. Beneficiaries are required to begin repayment only two years after completing their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program and securing employment. Repayments will be deducted at a rate of 10% from their salaries. The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, praised the initiative as a transformative step in making tertiary education accessible to all Nigerians. He assured that the Edo State government would work tirelessly to ensure the program’s success. Sawyerr reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s vision of ensuring no Nigerian student is deprived of tertiary education due to financial constraints. “President Tinubu created this agency with political will and funding to look for students who are considering dropping out or not pursuing higher education due to lack of money and provide them with solutions,” he said. In response to questions about whether beneficiaries of the loan scheme would face restrictions on travel or employment abroad, Sawyerr clarified that there are no such limitations. Beneficiaries are free to seek opportunities anywhere in the world but are encouraged to repay their loans responsibly. Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa commended the Federal Government for implementing the student loan scheme. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila, who sponsored the bill during the 9th Assembly. Idahosa pledged Edo State’s collaboration in raising awareness and ensuring students across the state benefit from the program.
NIGCOMSAT launches space-tech hackathon to empower youths in North-West Nigeria
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has unveiled a groundbreaking youth empowerment initiative targeting the North-West region of Nigeria. The program, which includes a Space-Tech Hackathon and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) training, is set to take place in Dutse, Jigawa State, from April 7 to 11, 2025. Aimed at fostering innovation and equipping participants with cutting-edge technological skills, the initiative will focus on enhancing broadband connectivity in underserved areas. It is open to university students, start-ups, and local innovators from seven states: Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa. Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, described the program as a platform to engage and empower young Nigerians. “The initiative aims to engage and empower young Nigerians, particularly university students, innovators, and professionals from the North-West,” she stated in a press release from Abuja. Interested participants can register for the program through an online form provided by NIGCOMSAT. This latest effort follows a similar program held in Yola, Adamawa State, for the North-East region earlier this year. Themed “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology,” the February event focused on driving technological innovation while addressing economic and social challenges According to NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, the five-day event will provide participants with mentorship and practical experience in satellite technologies. The hackathon will challenge participants to identify problems, develop solutions, and create prototypes under expert guidance. The winning team will gain automatic entry into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025 for further development of their projects. Additionally, 100 youths will be trained on VSAT installation, a critical technology for expanding broadband access in remote areas. Participants will receive certifications that enhance their employability and open doors to entrepreneurial opportunities in the ICT sector. Egerton-Idehen emphasized the broader goals of the initiative: “The aim of Space-Tech Hackathons and VSAT Trainings is to inspire innovation, solve community challenges, and tackle youth unemployment nationwide.” The North-West Hackathon and VSAT training are being co-hosted by Jigawa State in partnership with NIGCOMSAT Ltd., reflecting a commitment to regional development through technology-driven solutions.