The Federal Government of Nigeria is making a bold stride in its quest to strengthen the nation’s digital economy. Through the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology (FMIST), the government has launched a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy, offering Nigerians an opportunity to master cutting-edge AI skills.
Unveiled on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Abuja by the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, the program marks a significant collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation. The academy’s mission? To position Nigeria as a global leader in the digital economy while fostering local innovation and capacity building.
Why This Initiative Matters
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries, solving complex problems, and driving economic transformation worldwide. Yet, many countries struggle to keep pace. For Nigeria, this initiative is not just a catch-up strategy but a chance to leapfrog into the forefront of AI adoption, paving the way for a new era of national innovation and development.
According to Chief Nnaji:
“The Artificial Intelligence Academy is not just a training platform but a transformative opportunity for Nigerians—students, youths, and civil servants—to acquire critical skills in AI. By equipping Nigerians with these skills, we are preparing individuals for jobs and creating a pipeline of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will shape Nigeria’s technological and economic destiny.”
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Who Can Apply?
The program is open to all Nigerians, including students, youths, and civil servants, with free registration available online from December 19, 2024, to January 30, 2025.
Participants will gain access to:
- Self-paced courses on AI fundamentals, ethics, tools, and applications.
- Opportunities to compete for AI ambassadorial roles and internships with Intel Corporation.
- Hands-on global AI experiences to enhance their skills and broaden their horizons.
Chief Nnaji encouraged all eligible Nigerians to seize this opportunity by visiting the academy’s official website: https://scienceandtech.gov.ng/academy.
Beyond Training: Shaping Nigeria’s Future
The AI Academy isn’t just about skill-building—it’s a stepping stone toward solving Nigeria’s unique challenges across critical sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and security.
The program also aligns with the Commonwealth Artificial Intelligence Consortium’s (CAIC) broader action plan, which includes:
- Building policies to support AI innovation.
- Strengthening data and infrastructure capabilities.
- Advancing research and innovation within member nations.
Partnering for Success
This initiative stems from a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology and the Commonwealth Secretariat, forged during the 79th United Nations General Assembly. By joining forces with Intel Corporation, Nigeria has ensured participants receive training that meets global AI standards, preparing them to compete and innovate on the world stage.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, emphasized the project’s transformative potential:
“This partnership will empower over 1.5 billion young people in the Commonwealth, including Nigeria, to address global challenges and drive sustainable development through AI.”
A Broader Vision: Nigeria’s Digital Economy Goals
The launch of the AI Academy is part of a larger effort under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This includes the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, which aims to develop a robust pipeline of technical talent for Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
To date, the program has reached 13% of its target, training 390,000 Nigerians in various tech skills, with applications still open for the next cohorts.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, highlighted the grassroots impact of these initiatives:
“By nurturing talent across regions, we’re not just building individuals but strengthening entire communities. This is how we secure Nigeria’s position as a net talent exporter.”
How You Can Get Involved
- Register Today: Visit https://scienceandtech.gov.ng/academy to secure your spot in this transformative program.
- Spread the Word: Share this opportunity with students, professionals, and community leaders who can benefit from the training.
- Leverage the Skills: Take what you learn and apply it to solve challenges in your community and beyond.
The future of Nigeria’s economy is digital, and Artificial Intelligence is the key to unlocking it. Don’t just watch this revolution happen—be part of it!
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