AI Skills Urged as Key to Combating Unemployment and Poverty in Nigerian Universities

Embrace AI, Vice Chancellor Urges Tertiary Institutions

The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere (FUK), Prof. Umaru Pate, has called on Nigerian tertiary institutions to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their educational frameworks. Speaking during the university’s third combined convocation ceremony in Kashere, Gombe State, he emphasized AI’s role in addressing unemployment and poverty.

Prof. Pate highlighted that while AI is leading to the disappearance of some jobs, it is simultaneously creating new opportunities. He pointed out that only those equipped with relevant skills will benefit from the AI-driven job market. To keep Nigerian youths competitive, universities must update their educational approaches to focus on current knowledge and technological innovation.

Moving Away from Obsolete Training

He stressed the need to stop preparing students for jobs that are becoming obsolete due to automation and AI advancements. According to Pate, the employment landscape is shifting at an unprecedented rate, and traditional teaching methods must give way to AI-centered training programs that align with global demands.

“At this university, we avoid training students for jobs that will soon become obsolete due to automation and AI,” he said. He referenced recent projections estimating that over 92 million jobs may disappear within five years, while 120 million new roles will emerge through AI and digital technologies.

Skills for the Future

Prof. Pate underscored the importance of fresh mindsets, updated skills, and enhanced cognitive and emotional capacities to remain relevant in the evolving job market. He noted that knowledge and innovation, rather than oil, are now the main drivers of the global economy. Nigerian universities must lead the transition to a knowledge-based economy to keep the country competitive.

Investing in Youth Education

The Vice Chancellor called for greater investment in youth education, describing young people as the true engine of Nigeria’s future. He highlighted that such investment can help tackle major national challenges including poverty, crime, conflict, corruption, and climate change.

For the graduating class of 6,870 students, he advised focusing on personal development, digital skills, and critical thinking as key ingredients for success in today’s world. He encouraged them to become worthy ambassadors of the university wherever their careers take them.

With AI reshaping employment, educators can explore practical AI training options to prepare students effectively. For a range of courses focused on AI skills, visit Complete AI Training.