The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) for societal development. He described this year’s International Day of Education theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” as timely and aligned with UNILORIN’s forward-thinking approach.
Prof. Egbewole noted that the university recently trained 21 students in AI applications, with plans to sponsor 500 more in the near future. He emphasized that the initiative is aimed at fostering innovation and career growth among students. The university, which operates under a SMART Agenda emphasizing technology-driven education, has made significant investments in digital infrastructure, including a state-of-the-art data center and a robust network supporting online learning. Plans to establish a dedicated Centre for Artificial Intelligence are reportedly in advanced stages, complementing the university’s existing efforts in cybersecurity and technology.
In a related development, UNILORIN’s Senate has elected two new deputy vice-chancellors: Prof. Taibat Odunola-Bakare of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Prof. Mukhtar Adeiza Etudaiye of the Faculty of Law. Prof. Odunola-Bakare, an expert in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and former Dean of the Postgraduate School, will serve as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic). Prof. Etudaiye, a Professor of Law and Chairman of the University Admissions Committee, will assume the role of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology, and Innovation). Both appointments are subject to approval by the university’s governing council, led by Mr. Abiodun Aluko.
Outgoing deputy vice-chancellors, Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho and Prof. Sulaiman Folorunsho Ambali, were commended by Prof. Egbewole for their dedication and contributions to the university. Meanwhile, the current Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology, and Innovation), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, will transition to Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services). The appointments highlight UNILORIN’s continued commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and leadership development.