Full Breakdown
UNILAG International Week 2025: Fostering AI Partnerships in Africa
10/12/2025, 12:29:52 PM
Overview of the Event
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is set to host its 2025 International Week from October 13 to 17, focusing on "Equitable Partnerships and the Future of AI in Africa." This event will feature prominent figures such as Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Africa Lead at OpenAI; Yvonne Ike, Managing Director at Bank of America; and Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The week-long program aims to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and global collaboration, bringing together government officials, academics, and technology innovators.
Key Themes and Discussions
The event will include plenary and technical sessions addressing various topics, including ethical AI governance, data stewardship, and educational innovation. A significant focus will be on public procurement and digital governance, with discussions led by Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, the head of Nigeria’s Bureau of Public Procurement. The convergence of expertise is anticipated to yield actionable outcomes such as policy recommendations and investment linkages that will enhance Africa's digital landscape.
Institutional Goals
Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, emphasized the importance of this event in shaping Africa's voice in the global technology ecosystem. She stated that the university aims to build bridges between academia, industry, and government to ensure equitable engagement with technology. Ismail Ibraheem, Director of International Relations at UNILAG, highlighted that the International Week has evolved into a platform for practical collaborations since its inception in 2019.
Criticism & Opposition
While the event aims to foster collaboration, some critics argue that the focus on AI and technology may overshadow pressing issues such as infrastructure deficits and socio-economic inequalities in Nigeria. They contend that without addressing these foundational challenges, discussions on technology may not yield the intended benefits for the broader population.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This year’s focus on equitable AI partnerships comes at a critical moment when Africa must shape its own voice and strategy in the global technology ecosystem, and it is our vision at UNILAG to make the continent future-ready,” — Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor, UNILAG
- “Speaking on the significance of the event, the institution’s Director of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects (IRPP), Ismail Ibraheem, a professor of Journalism and Communication Studies, said International Week 2025 reflects the university’s global vision and its approach to breaking partnership barriers.” — Ismail Ibraheem, Director of International Relations, UNILAG
What's Next
Following the International Week, UNILAG plans to implement the insights and recommendations generated during the event to further enhance its role in fostering innovation and collaboration in Africa's tech landscape. The outcomes are expected to influence policy-making and strengthen partnerships across various sectors.
In summary, the 2025 International Week at UNILAG represents a significant effort to engage diverse stakeholders in discussions about the future of AI in Africa, aiming to create a more equitable and inclusive technological landscape.
