By Ikenna Nwokedi and Jennifer Isidienu 

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Joseph I. Ikechebelu, FAMed, has stated that part of his agenda towards digitizing the University entails increasing the awareness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the University Community. 

Prof. Ikechebelu stated this during a live broadcast on UNIZIK 94.1 FM Radio on Friday, 14th June 2024 during an interactive session.

Prof. Ikechebelu informed that his administration will set up a committee in the university on efficient use of the Artificial Intelligence to enhance digitization which will come into stream in the aftermath of the Eid-el- Kabir festive period.

The Ag. Vice-Chancellor mentioned that in the last training conducted by NUC for artificial intelligence, 24 members of staff from Nnamdi Azikiwe University participated in the empowerment program which played a crucial role in increasing the awareness of AI in the University community. 

Prof. Ikechebelu disclosed that the staff of the University who undertook the NUC recent training on AI would be deployed to various units, Directorates and Departments were they are expected to cascade the knowledge acquired to other staff members which will translate to efficient University operations and administration with various students' groups also not left out.

The scholar also confirmed that the committee will also be saddled with the responsibility of creating an AI policy for the University. He reiterated that the policy will be very key because the use of AI comes with its pros and cons but the primary focus is to harness the positive aspect of the innovation and not allowing the negative to override them.