A renowned Artificial Intelligence governance expert, Dr. Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, has called on governments at all levels to invest more in universities and equip lecturers with the knowledge and tools needed to drive technological innovation and research. Akerele-Ogunsiji made the call while delivering the 2026 Annual Lecture of the School of Computing at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State. The lecture, the second in the series, was themed: “From Artificial Intelligence Consumers to Creators: Preparing African Universities for the Global Intelligence Economy through Computing Education, Research and Industry Collaboration.” The AI expert, who is the Founder of Rise Networks and Rise Interactive Studios Africa, argued that universities must move beyond merely teaching students how to use artificial intelligence and begin producing innovators capable of building AI solutions for Africa and the world. According to her, fears that artificial intelligence would replace lecturers and educational institutions are misplaced. “Artificial intelligence will not eliminate universities. It will transform universities. It is not AI that will take your job; it is the person who knows how to use AI that will take your job,” she said. She stressed that governments should channel more resources into universities and research institutions rather than relying heavily on external consultants. “The money that the government is giving consultants can be given to universities to drive research and development. The university, students and lecturers are the ones who should drive research and development for the country,” she stated. Akerele-Ogunsiji cited examples from countries where universities play a central role in solving national problems through research, innovation and collaboration with government and industry. She challenged African universities to develop comprehensive AI strategies capable of positioning them as creators rather than consumers of emerging technologies. The guest lecturer advocated making Artificial Intelligence education compulsory across all disciplines, insisting that AI literacy should become a foundational requirement for every graduate irrespective of course of study. “AI should not remain confined within computing or science departments. Every graduate must have foundational AI literacy. A lawyer should understand algorithmic accountability, a medical doctor should understand AI-assisted diagnostics, an accountant should understand intelligent auditing systems, and a journalist should understand synthetic media and misinformation.” Akerele-Ogunsiji further called on lecturers to embrace emerging technologies and collaborate with students in developing innovative solutions and startups. Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, described artificial intelligence as a transformative technology influencing virtually every sector of human endeavour, including education, agriculture, banking, sports and entertainment. She urged participants to leverage the conference to build lasting relationships and strengthen collaboration between academia and industry. “This conference will be successful if we develop a network amongst ourselves, collaborate, develop friendships, share knowledge and strengthen industry-academia collaboration,” Oladiji said.
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.
