By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, on Tuesday officially launched the Artificial intelligence (AI) learning content in Hausa language.
The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, while launching the AI at Umaru Yardu’a Hall in Kaduna, said he was filled with pride knowing that Kaduna State is at the forefront of democratizing AI education.
According to him, the initiative, delivered in Hausa, will not only make complex concepts accessible but will also ignite a passion for learning among the people, particularly women and youth.
” This commendable initiative complements our effort in Information Technology, training of women and girls in the acquisition of digital skills, and the preparation of our youths for the emerging digital economy in Nigeria.
“The Kaduna State Government agreed with Google. org to train 5,000 women and girls in data science, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurial application of digital technologies.
” I would like to seize this opportunity to extend my profound gratitude to our partner, Google.org, who incidentally are also supporting today’s program, for their unwavering support and commitment to our administration’s vision of using technology to unleash and harness the vast potential of our women for the socio-economic transformation of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.
” This initiative, which is part of a broader skills development program supported by Google.org, aims to empower 20,000 more women and young people across Nigeria with 21st-century skills, positioning them for opportunities in the digital and creative industries.
He explained that the Arewa Tech4Ladies Program was created by Data Science Nigeria (DSN) to drive the process in Kaduna State. It shall therefore cover the three senatorial districts in Kaduna State, offering specialized women-focused learning, mentoring, and job placement support facilities.
He said the commitment of Data Science Nigeria (DSN) to the success of the ArewaLadies4Tech program in ensuring 5,000 women and girls in AI and digital technology is not only transforming lives but also laying the foundation for a vibrant and inclusive digital economy in our state.
” It is gratifying to note that so far, over 3,000 women and girls have been trained in AI and digital technology. At the pace at which you are moving, I am confident that we shall reach our 5,000 target very soon.” The Governor added.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Fakai, noted that the exercise aimed to enhance access to information and opportunities for the Hausa-speaking community, not just in Kaduna State and northern Nigeria, but across the entire African sub-region where Hausa is spoken.
” The Al for Beginners in Hausa and its sister, Arewa Ladies4Tech, was a dedication to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusion in the digital space, in ensuring that everyone has the chance to harness the transformative potential of
technology.
According to her, Kaduna State has consistently led the charge in harnessing ICT for socio-economic progress, as evidenced by the Arewa Ladies4Tech initiative.
The initiative aimed to empower 5000 women in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and related fields which is now in its second cohort. Its primary goal is to improve job creation in Data Science,
Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Technologies, with a focus on Kaduna
State and Northern Nigeria.
She added that Kaduna State has pioneered the adoption of the National
Startup Act at the sub-national level, establishing the Kaduna State
Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship through the signing
into law of the Tech-enabled Startup Law in July 2023 to oversee its
implementation.
” Additionally, a draft ICT Policy is in the works, signaling a commitment to fostering innovation in the state. These efforts have cultivated an innovation ecosystem across the northern sub-region, supported by hubs such as CoLab, Greysoft Technologies, KadaHive,
KADICT Hub and others.
” The initiative was possible with the
collaboration of Google.org, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Data Science Nigeria, and the Ahmadu Bello University.
She urged members of the public to embrace the spirit of innovation, empowerment, and unity to pave the way for a future where technology serves as the catalyst for progress and prosperity for all.
