Rivers
VC Makes Case For Technology-Based Human Capital Development
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Prof. Okechuku Onuchuku, has harped on the need for technology-based human capital development in Nigeria.
Onuchuku, who made the call while declaring open the 5th International Conference of the Faculty of Humanities of the University, midweek, charged stakeholders to focus on the development of citizens at all times.
Focusing on human capital development through Artificial Intelligence (AI), he said, “development without human capital development amount to a waste of valuable resources.
“No matter the sector, every development must be geared towards improving the welfare of citizens for progress and growth in that sector according to him”.
While referring to Artificial intelligence as computer systems capable of performing complex tasks that historically only a human could do, such as reasoning, making decisions or solving problems, he allayed fears that jobs of humans will be completely eroded.
The Acting Vice Chancellor added that though computers, through programming, are mimicking human intelligence processes and built to think, act like humans, and replicate problem solving abilities, they cannot completely take over the job of humans.
Humans, he said, “will use artificial intelligence to develop whatever Unit, Community, State and Nation that they find themselves in”.
Professor Onuchuku informed that it is for economic growth and development that humans are confronting the environment with a view to producing those services that can create comfort, stressing that Artificial intelligence is one way to do that.
In his welcome address, the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Professor Kingdom Eke Orji, affirmed that in the 21st century’s globalised society, “knowledge has been identified as the indisputable fifth factor of production and the pivot on which meaningful holistic development resolved”.
He stated that a knowledge-driven economy is a brand in the production, distribution, and exchange, while consumption of goods and services are anchored strategically on the threshold of intellectual property that dovetails into the acceleration of scientific innovation.
According to the Dean, “the integration of Artificial intelligence into the realm of the Humanities marks a watershed in repositioning erstwhile research mechanisms for digitalization and automation.
AI, he said, has the capacity of assisting scholars in the Humanities with data analysis and decision-making, breaking of communication barriers through Artificial intelligence powered language translation tools, the creation of functional robotic systems amidst others.
Professor Orji emphasized that the unique feature of the Conference is its noble attempt to mainstream the “Gown and Town” symbiotic relations.
He expressed gratitude to the Acting Vice Chancellor for what he described as his “steadfastness and unflinching commitment to the maximum successes of all conferences at the Departmental and Faculty levels”.
Speaking on, “The Promises of Artificial intelligence in the Humanities: An African Perspective and the Charge for IAUE”, the Acting Director, ICT Centre, Dr. Nathaniel Ojekudo, highlighted the gains of a high level understanding of Artificial intelligence concepts, applications and implications, particularly within the African context.
He explored the transformative potentials of generative Artificial intelligence and it’s impact on academia, governments, industries and society.
He also reflected on the ethical considerations and challenges associated with Artificial intelligence and identified opportunities for IAUE to leverage Artificial intelligence for innovation, education and societal benefits.
The Natural Ruler and Nyeweli Ali Rumuolumeni Kingdom, His Royal Highness King Chukwuemeka Victor E. N. Woji Okocha Olumeni, Olumeni XII, was conferred with an award of honour for his role in keeping peace and security which has translated in the giant strides recorded in the University Community.
In his response to the award received, the Nyeweli Ali, Rumuolumeni Kingdom, expressed gratitude to the Faculty of Humanities for the honour done him and pledged his support and that of his Council of Chiefs towards all university activities.
He also stressed the essence of Artificial intelligence in the new world of technology and advised staff and students to key into it, adding that technology is the way to go.
Professor Tunde Ope Davies of the Centre for Digital Humanities, University of Lagos presented the lead paper at the conference which focused on “The Role of New Technologies in Reconfiguring and Retooling the Humanities: Exploring DH and AI”.
The theme for the conference was “AI and the Humanities” .
Sogbeba Dokubo
Continue Reading
The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) has strengthened its regional footprint with the inauguration of the executive members of its South-South Zonal Chapter, tasking them with championing the pivotal role of microbiologists in national development.
At a virtual inaugural meeting held recently, the National President of NSM, Prof. S. A. Ado, formally ushered in the new leadership team, describing the chapter’s take-off as both strategic and long overdue for a region of immense ecological and economic importance.
The newly appointed executives are Prof. Nedie P. Akani, who is the Zonal Coordinator (Rivers State University); Dr. Anwuli U. Osadebe, Zonal Secretary (University of Port Harcourt); Dr. Tonye Sampson, Treasurer/Financial Secretary (Rivers State University); and Prof. Elijah Ohimain, Public Relations Officer (Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State).
In his welcome remarks, Ado congratulated the team and pledged the full backing of the National Executive Council (NEC), commending the swift coordination that culminated in the chapter’s inauguration.
He urged the executives to prioritise unity and professional mobilisation across the vast South-South region, noting that effective organisation would be critical to achieving impact.
Echoing this position, the National Secretary, Prof. Sunday Awe, and the National Business Manager, Prof. C. J. Ogugbue, reaffirmed NEC’s support and underscored the weight of responsibility before the new zonal leadership.
They acknowledged the geographic spread and diversity of the zone, but expressed confidence in the capacity of the Coordinator to provide purposeful leadership.
Ogugbue, in particular, highlighted the multidisciplinary scope of microbiology and its growing relevance in pollution control, environmental remediation, biodiversity conservation, agricultural productivity, coastal ecosystem protection and the development of a sustainable blue economy.
He stressed that the South-South Chapter must serve as a hub of scientific leadership, given the region’s environmental sensitivities and economic assets.
In her inaugural address, the Zonal Coordinator, Prof. Nedie Patience Akani, described the formal launch of the chapter as “a dream come true” for microbiologists in the region who had long anticipated a structured platform for collaboration and professional advancement.
Akani said the new executive was fully aware of its mandate and committed to repositioning microbiology as a driver of innovation and problem-solving in the South-South.
According to her, the Chapter will focus on mobilising practitioners to register with the society and participate actively in its programmes, ensuring timely payment of dues, organising annual symposia and workshops, appointing state representatives, and maintaining regular reporting to the NEC.
She emphasised that beyond administrative coordination, the executive would work to amplify the voice of microbiologists in addressing regional challenges, particularly in environmental management and sustainable development.
“We are committed to serving the society and advancing microbiology in the South-South zone,” she said, and expressed appreciation to the national leadership for its trust and for enabling the inauguration to hold virtually.
With the new executive now in place, stakeholders say the South-South Zonal Chapter is poised to galvanise professionals across the region and deepen the impact of microbiological research and practice in shaping public health, environmental sustainability and economic resilience.
The Vice Chancellor (VC) of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Prof Okechuku Onuchuku, has directed students to report any lecturer who sells textbooks above ?5,000 to the institution’s Quality Assurance Department.
This, he said, is part of decisive steps to protect students from exploitation and uphold ethical standards on campus.
Onuchuku made made this known following students’ growing lamentation over the high cost of textbooks in the Campus recently.
The VC warned that compelling students to purchase textbooks at inflated prices is not the policy of the university and will not be condoned under any circumstance.
He stressed that while academic authorship is encouraged, monetising compulsory materials beyond the approved ?5,000 benchmark undermines access to education.
According to him, any lecturer found violating the directive should be promptly reported for investigation and appropriate sanctions.
He assured students that management remains committed to creating a fair academic environment where learning is not hindered by undue financial pressure.
The IAUE helmsman described the directive as part of a broader reform agenda aimed at sanitizing the academic system and strengthening institutional accountability.
He reiterated that the Quality Assurance Department has been empowered to handle such complaints with confidentiality and diligence.
Professor Onuchuku has consistently championed discipline, transparency and integrity since assuming leadership of the university.
His administration has repeatedly cautioned staff against academic fraud, sharp practices and conduct capable of tarnishing the institution’s image.
Under his stewardship, the university secured approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to mount fourteen new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, significantly expanding its academic frontiers and reinforcing its relevance in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
In a bid to promote academic excellence, the Vice Chancellor also introduced incentives targeted at high-performing students, including free internet access for those with a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 and above.
The initiative, according to a statement from the Public Relations Unit of the university, is designed to strengthen research culture and reward diligence.
By: King Onunwor
The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Gift Worlu, has expressed deep concern over the unfortunate incidents that led to the loss of lives in parts of the LGA.
A statement the Chairman personally signed, weekend, said the incidents occurred in Rumuokpoku, Rumuola and at the Rumuokwurusi Oil Mill Market, causing apprehension among residents.
The OBALGA Council boss described the development as regrettable and assured residents that security agencies are fully on top of the situation.
He disclosed that some arrests have already been made in connection with the incidents, with efforts ongoing to ensure that the suspects are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Chairman urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that there is no cause for panic.
He called for sustained collaboration between security agencies and community leaders to curb the negative trend and restore normalcy in the affected areas.
Dr. Worlu commended security operatives and community stakeholders for their swift response and commitment to maintaining peace and order.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the local government to safeguarding lives and property across the LGA.
The Chairman encouraged residents of Obio/Akpor to continue with their lawful businesses without fear, and assured that the government will continue to take all necessary measures to strengthen security and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to families who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate events, and also prayed for the repose of the departed souls and comfort for the bereaved families during this difficult period.
By: King Onunwor
-
Maritime9 hours ago
Customs Declares War Against Narcotics Baron At Idiroko Border
-
Maritime9 hours ago
Nigeria To Pilot Regional Fishing Vessels Register In Gulf Of Guinea —Oyetola
-
Maritime9 hours ago
NIMASA,NAF Boost Unmanned Aerial Surveillance For Maritime Security
-
City Crime6 hours ago
NCSU Hails Fubara Over 2025 New Telegraph Man Of The Year Award
-
Maritime9 hours ago
NIWA Collaborates ICPC TO Strengthen Integrity, Revenue
-
Business9 hours agoBOI Introduces Business Clinic
-
Maritime9 hours ago
NIMASA GETS NEW MARITIME GUARD COMMANDER,ADOKI
-
Business9 hours agoDangote signs $400 mln equipment deal with China’s XCMG to speed up refinery expansion