According to the report from the Sun, The Bauchi State Government has allocated N100 million in its 2024 budget to engage youths in computer programming and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This announcement was made by Governor Bala Mohammed during the official inauguration of the new ICT Centre at Sa’adu Zungur University.
The state-of-the-art ICT Centre was donated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility and NNPC-SPDC Joint Venture initiatives.
Governor Mohammed, represented by the Director General of the Bureau for ICT, Hayatuddeen Babamaji, praised NNPCL and SPDC for their contribution. He emphasized his administration's commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development. "The inauguration of the ICT Centre in SAZU marks an important milestone in our collective journey towards building a sustainable digital ecosystem in Bauchi State," he said.
Mohammed highlighted that the new ICT Centre aligns with the administration's efforts to equip students with the necessary tools to excel in the digital environment. He extended his gratitude to NNPCL, SPDC, and their joint venture partners for their support. "Your generous contribution has not only made the ICT Centre a reality but also demonstrates your support for the advancement of education and technology in Bauchi State," he stated.
The governor acknowledged the ultramodern facility's potential as a national catalyst for education, technological advancement, youth empowerment, and the development of innovative solutions to address critical national issues. He expressed hope that the Centre would provide students with opportunities to explore the digital world, acquire valuable skills, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
He said, "I encourage all our students to utilize this facility to immerse themselves in the world of information and communication technology and to become the driving force behind the digital transformation of our state and country."
Governor Mohammed also noted that Bauchi State has made significant strides in leveraging technology for efficiency and sustainable development. "Our government's digital transformation efforts aim to enhance service delivery, transparency in government operations, create job opportunities for youths, promote e-commerce entrepreneurship, and improve citizens' access to quality education and health," he added.
Vice Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University, Professor Fatimah Tahir, commended Governor Mohammed for his continuous support to the university. "His vision and dedication to the development of education in the state have been instrumental in our progress," she explained.