Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has called on Nigerian universities of technology to take the lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution by advancing artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, biotechnology, and digital innovation to support the country's economic reforms.
Governor's Convocation Lecture at FUTO
Governor Uzodimma delivered this charge on Friday while presenting the 38th Convocation Lecture at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State. The lecture was titled “Nigerian Universities of Technology Must Lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution or Jeopardize the Nation’s Future.”
In a post on his official X account, Uzodimma emphasized the need for universities to transcend their traditional roles and become active drivers of innovation, industrial growth, and economic transformation.
Key Points from the Lecture
The governor highlighted three critical areas for achieving this objective:
- Increased STEM Investment: Sustained investment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is essential for Nigeria's industrial advancement and technological self-reliance.
- Industry-Aligned Curricula: University curricula must be aligned with contemporary industry realities and emerging technological trends to produce graduates who meet market demands.
- Shift in University Roles: Universities must move from traditional roles to becoming drivers of industrial growth and technological self-reliance.
Imo State Initiatives
Governor Uzodimma showcased several initiatives undertaken by the Imo State Government to promote knowledge transfer and youth empowerment:
- Skill-Up Imo Project: A program aimed at equipping young people with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
- Imo Digital Centre: A facility focused on digital skills development and technology training.
- University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Omuma (UISTO): A new institution dedicated to applied sciences, technology, digital skills, and entrepreneurship.
“As a Government, in Imo State, we have demonstrated our commitment to knowledge transfer and youth empowerment through these initiatives,” Uzodimma stated.
Embracing Global Technological Transformation
The governor stressed that Nigeria must embrace the current technology-driven global transformation powered by AI, robotics, biotechnology, and digital innovation. He urged research institutions across the country to champion this change by providing cutting-edge technologies to complement the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The current technology-driven global transformation powered by artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and digital innovation must be embraced as a society and championed by our research institutions across the country, providing cutting-edge technologies to complement the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Uzodimma said.
Laying a Foundation for Innovation-Driven Development
Through these strategic initiatives, Uzodimma noted that Nigeria is laying a solid foundation for innovation-driven development. He expressed confidence that the nation remains committed to achieving even greater milestones in the years ahead.
The governor's call underscores the growing importance of technology and innovation in driving economic growth and national development, positioning Nigerian universities as key players in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
