FG moves to add AI, digital skills to university curriculum

The Federal Government plans to embed artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity into university curricula to equip Nigerian graduates with essential digital skills for the modern workforce.

This was disclosed during a meeting in Abuja between the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu.

The discussion focused on accelerating the implementation of the Digital Literacy and Skills Curriculum, an initiative first agreed upon in December 2024.

Inuwa emphasized the need to align Nigeria’s education system with global technological advancements.

“With rapid technological progress, digital skills are essential for success. This initiative will equip students with the competencies needed to thrive in a tech-driven world, fostering job creation and economic resilience,” he said.

The updated curriculum will cover AI, blockchain, the Internet of Things, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.

Professor Ribadu reaffirmed NUC’s commitment to implementing the digital curriculum and pledged to work closely with NITDA to drive digital transformation in higher education.

The initiative aligns with the federal government’s strategy to reform the economy through industrialization, digitization, and innovation.