Nigeria/EU Partnership: 5 Universities To Commence Master’s Degree In Embedded AI

A landmark collaboration between Nigeria and the European Union is set to give Nigeria cutting-edge expertise in embedded AI. The partnership is poised to revolutionize the country’s technological landscape and empower a new generation of innovators.

The EU Erasmus Program, officially launched during a recent workshop at the Centre for Information and Telecommunications, University of Portharcourt, marks a significant step towards bridging the skill gap and unlocking the potentials of this transformative technology.

Professor Bourdillon Omije, Director of the Centre and national coordinator for the project, highlights the program’s core objective to be a partnership with the EU to build human capacity in embedded AI.

Five foremost universities in the country – Obafemi Awolowo University, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, University of Abuja, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, and University of
Portharcourt – are collaborating to offer a Master’s degree program.

The choice of the universities is to ensure a geographically diverse reach and comprehensive knowledge dissemination within the country.

There was an intensive faculty training workshop that served to lay the groundwork for a robust academic framework.

“This training equips our faculty with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver the program effectively,” Omije stated, adding that graduates will emerge with technical expertise in modeling,
design, and analysis, and in addition an entrepreneurial mindset that will allow them to transform their ideas into marketable products.

Funding for the program, secured through an EU grant, has a three-year lifespan. However, the program has a robust sustainability plan which includes student scholarships, self-financing options and external grants.

“We are committed to fostering transparency and ensuring that deserving students have access to financial support,” Omije added.

Dr. Dan Onwuchekwa, International Coordinator, shedding light on the program’s broader vision said, “We’re addressing two major issues – graduate employability and the lack of industries. By equipping graduates with the skills and entrepreneurial spirit to turn their ideas into products, we can create jobs and drive economic growth.”

The coordinator stressed that they would create “ an ecosystem that connects young graduates, universities, and European partners, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Cultural differences in project management styles present challenges, but Dr. Onwuchekwa sees them as opportunities for mutual learning and growth.

He said they would embrace the differences and leverage on each other’s strengths to build a successful program.

He said the long-term vision is a Nigeria where AI is not just consumed but created.

“We foresee a future where young Nigerians are not just consumers of technology, but creators. This program is a stepping stone towards that future, equipping the next generation with the tools and mindset to drive innovation and shape a brighter tomorrow.”

Prof. L. Oborkhale, Professor of Telecommunications and Electronics Engineering, emphasized the program’s ambitious reach, spanning eight universities across Europe and Nigeria. He acknowledged challenges like limited resources and government support but praised the Vice Chancellor for his assistance.

Prof. Oborkhale, who’s the Project Leader & Coordinator (MOUAU CENTRE) also hinted at the program’s potential applications in agriculture and research.

Dr. Okoro C.K., the Deputy Coordinator of the MOUAU Centre, highlighted the program’s potential for nurturing self-reliance and international exposure for talented youths. He emphasized the crucial role of research-industry collaboration in ensuring the program’s long-term success.

Catherine Nathaniel, a graduate of Electrical Engineering from UniPort, emphasized the program’s practical potentials but cautioned about potential limitations such as financial constraints and
beneficiary engagement.

The program also witnessed a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Owunari Georgewill A., where Dr. Onwuchekwa presented him with an award for his outstanding leadership.

Dr. Onwuchekwa was also handed an award by Professor Omijeh for his exceptional contribution and role as a worthy UniPort ambassador.