By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

Kwara Government, in partnership with Digital Equity Africa, has trained 200 school children from across the state on how to apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create and solve real-world problems.

The participants were drawn from public and private primary and junior secondary schools, following a seamless selection process.

Speaking at the grand finale in Ilorin, the Managing Director, Ilorin Innovation Hub, Mr Temi Kolawole, said the training underscored the government’s commitment to digital inclusion.

Kolawole said he was impressed with the manner the pupils exhibited their creative skills and expressed optimism that their future was bright.

“It is very impressive to see kids under the age of 10 presenting the websites they built, presenting a story book they have written and even music they requested AI to compose.

“If they can do this at this stage we can imagine what they will do in the next five to 10 years.

“Such exposure improves their curiosity, innovation and creativity,” he said.

The CEO of Digital Equity Africa, Mrs Justina Oha, said the session was not just about teaching technology but also about shaping mindset.

She said it also reflected nurturing innovation and helping young people to perceive themselves as creators of the digital future, not just consumers of digital products.

Oha commended the government and the Ilorin Innovation Hub for the partnership and their commitment to digital literacy and inclusion in Kwara.

“Over the past few days, your children have explored the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence, learning how machines think, create, and solve real-world problems.

“They have collaborated, built and imagined boldly, proving that the future truly belongs to those who are curious, courageous and creative.

“We are deeply grateful. This partnership by the government is commendable in ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the opportunities of tomorrow.

“To you, the parents, thank you for believing in your children and in this vision. The best investment you can make is in their minds.

“What you witnessed today are not just projects, but seeds of transformation,” she said.

One of the participants, Abdulkareem Khadijat, appreciated the state government and Digital Equity Africa for providing them with the platform to learn digital skills and become AI-compliant. (NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne