A new effort to empower women in Northern Nigeria through AI education was launched today in Kaduna state. In conjunction with the Kaduna State Government and Data Science Nigeria, Google has launched the AI for Beginners Learning Video series.
This series introduces AI ideas in Hausa, making sophisticated technology accessible and culturally relevant to the region.
Various issues may hamper access to technology education and professional prospects in Northern Nigeria.
These include various socio-cultural variables, infrastructure constraints, and linguistic impediments.
The AI for Beginners Learning Video Series, with its entertaining animations and culturally relevant visuals, aims to make complicated digital concepts more approachable and relatable, promoting equality and participation in the rising technology sector.
The launch event, held at Kaduna’s Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall, celebrated technology, education, and the enormous potential of Northern Nigerian women.
His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, was the Guest of Honor and delivered a keynote address emphasizing the government’s commitment to digital transformation and economic development.
“AI is not just the future; it’s the present,” said Governor Uba Sani. “By equipping our people, especially our women, with AI skills, we’re not only paving the way for a more prosperous and innovative Northern Nigeria but also laying the foundation for Kaduna to become a thriving tech hub.”
“We believe that technology can be a powerful force for change and are committed to making learning resources available in local languages to empower more people,” stated the Director of Google West Africa at the inaugural event held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall, Murtala Muhammad Square in Kaduna.
He continued, “This series marks a new milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance AI knowledge across Northern Nigeria, fostering a broader understanding and application of AI technologies.”
The event also featured statements from NITDA and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, who emphasized the initiative’s national significance and the government’s commitment to nurturing a robust digital sector.
The AI for Beginners Learning Video Series is now available on YouTube through the Data Science Nigeria platform, on the NITDA education portal, and as a download.
The series has been distributed on USB sticks and made available for direct peer-to-peer copying at all primary and secondary schools in Kaduna State and public video content-copying centres to improve accessibility
