Our Goal is to Embed AI in Every Curriculum- Ogunsola Says

By Barakat Lawal

The vice chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folashade Ogunsola said AI will be integrated into the institution’s curriculum, irrespective of discipline, as it is a tool for problem solving.

She noted this during the launch of Africa’s first University Innovation Pods (UNIPOD), at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium, UNILAG, on 7 April, 2026.

Ogunsola noted that AI boosts productivity and speeds up solutions across the board.

“It is fundamental to efficient cost-saving, and timely solutions in all fields of endeavors,” she said.

She described the launch as a “transformation milestone” for the university and the country at large.

“This marks the beginning of a journey that will shape the future of innovation, research, and national development,” she said.

“Artificial Intelligence is a powerful force, and through this hub, we are positioning our students and researchers to harness it for societal impact.”

The Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the deputy chief of staff to the president, Ibrahim Hassan noted that the UNIPOD is more than a facility – it’s a catalyst for national transformation, adding that that Nigeria must actively participate in the global AI revolution to avoid falling behind in technological advancement.

“Across agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance, AI offers vast opportunities to unlock new pathways to prosperity,” he said.

“But this potential will only be realised if our systems are inclusive, equitable, and aligned with our values.”

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) resident representative in Nigeria, Ms Elsie Attafuah noted that the project’s success is contingent upon a synergistic collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector.

“To the private sector, this is an invitation to invest in talent and help translate ideas into enterprises,” she said.

“To the young people here today, this platform is an opportunity that calls for curiosity, creativity, and commitment.”

The Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono stressed that the country’s economic resilience depends on harnessing young minds.

The event was attended by government representatives, university leaders, industry partners, and students. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was represented by his Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake.

Other dignitaries at the event included the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono;
Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwa’Iba Saidu Ahmad; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther. Also present was Saheed Azeez, Founder of Yarn GPT.AI).