,,,,,,Governor’s aide stresses fostering digital innovation,collaboration in kwara.
By correspondent in Offa.
Summit University, Offa, continues its impressive journey towards global recognition as a research-intensive institution. This time, the government has joined hands in this endeavor.
On November 30th, 2023, the Research and Innovation Unit warmly welcomed Mr. Kayode Ishola, the dynamic Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Digital Innovation and his team to Summit University, Offa, Kwara State.
A seasoned software engineer and entrepreneur, Mr. Ishola specializes in advancing technology for social causes.
He is also the founder of Digprom International, a digital and innovation company, and Kids Tech Africa, a pan-African tech startup preparing African children for the future by imparting technological insights.
Professor Abiodun Musa Aibinu, the Vice-Chancellor, took the floor to reaffirm the institution’s vision: to be recognized for innovation and invention, envisioning transformative impacts on the way we live in our communities, safeguard our nation, and contribute to progress across Africa. During the session, members of the two research groups in the University showcased some of their innovative products, including advancements in Smart Aquaculture, Precision Agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, Clean Energy, Energy Generation, Learning Management Development, Financial Technology, Software Development, Printed Circuit Board development, Governance, Grantsmanship, and Food Security.
Emphasizing the importance of knowledge sharing and early youth empowerment, Professor Aibinu highlighted the University’s efforts in visiting secondary schools in Offa, Lagos, and beyond. The focus is on enlightening students about sought-after skills like drone building, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
Mr. Ishola commended the progress made, especially in championing Acado-preneurship—the transformation of final year projects into viable business ventures. He stressed the need for more initiatives like this and underscored the importance of “localization” as a key strategy. This approach enables youth to leverage modern skills to solve community and national problems.
Expressing his delight, Mr. Ishola expressed interest in collaborating with Summit University, Offa to enhance grant-writing skills. He encouraged the institution to involve the state government in youth development, asserting that community engagement is crucial for empowerment.
Professor Aibinu thanked the guests, expressing enthusiasm for collaboration with other tech hubs in the state and the nation at large.
