As the world revolves around AI, the need to equip young ones with the skill intensifies
As part of the push for artificial intelligence (AI) embodiment, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools in Lagos (NAPPS) and Digital Learning Network (DLN), a US-based multinational company, have entered into an AI deal. The initiative, which is a $1 billion project, aims to provide digital learning solutions to over 5 million private school students in Lagos State.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed between the two parties on Thursday, will seek to implement the transformation of the artificial intelligence smart schools initiative for the average student in Nigeria.
According to the President of NAPPS Lagos Chapter, Alaka Yusuf, the agreement aims to equip every child with the necessary equipment for a digitally encompassed future. He noted that the initiative comes with a one-laptop-per-learner program.
“We are not marking a milestone; we are ushering in a new era of learning and innovation for private schools across Lagos state. The world is rapidly evolving, and education must evolve with it. The one laptop per learner program is more just a vision; it’s a commitment to providing every child with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world,” he said.
While describing the agreement as a “game changer” initiative, Alaka explained that the initiative will foster creativity, critical thinking, and global competitiveness and also bridge the gap between modern learning and 21st-century education. He added that through the project, educators as well as teaching methodologies and outcomes will be enhanced.
“As NAPPS Lagos’ state, we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that private schools lead the way in academic excellence and innovation. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to preparing our children for a future driven by technology,” Alaka said.
Reacting to the partnership, the CEO & President of DLN, Mr. Thomas Larmena said that the initiative is structured at embracing education in artificial intelligence-powered transformation at zero cost to NAPPS, the government, and no added expense to the average student. He noted that the launch, entirely financed by private capital, will promote social inclusion, drive economic growth, and improve the quality of education.
The Lagos $1 billion AI and digital learning project
The $1 billion project, funded by DLN Inc., aims to provide digital learning solutions to over 5 million private school students in Lagos State, including AI-powered platforms, laptops, and digital literacy training for NAPPS Lagos’ educational initiatives.
Additionally, DLN plans to build assembly facilities in Nigeria to provide laptops and affordable data for over 40 million students, creating 2,400 new jobs and 1,400 instructor jobs through its disruptive business model.
The DLN boss, Thomas Larmena also noted that the organization is in discussions with Lagos State to replicate and scale up its $1.2 billion digitally enabled and inclusive education project nationwide. This will see the company collaborate with Starlink connectivity for high-speed internet at every school building partnerships with a local telecom company to expand internet access beyond campuses.
Lastly, he stressed DLN’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the success of digital transformation projects in Nigeria’s education sector. This aims to provide quality education comparable to developed countries.
As the world revolves around artificial intelligence, the need to equip young ones with the skill intensifies. This was pictured in a recent move by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology to launch a free Artificial Intelligence academy to help equip Nigerian youths with essential artificial intelligence skills.
The academy, in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation, aims to prepare young Nigerians for future roles in the digital economy. Participants will have the chance to compete for artificial intelligence ambassadorial roles and internships with Intel Corporation while the opportunities are expected to provide participants with hands-on experience and exposure to the global artificial intelligence industry.
Interested applicants can register for the programme by visiting the official website. The application portal will close on January 30th, 2025. The initiative is said to be part of the Nigerian government’s efforts to use technology for economic growth and job creation, helping to empower Nigerian youths in the digital age.
