The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Abdullahi Ribadu, has announced that the commission has developed an Artificial Intelligence policy for tertiary institutions. He disclosed that the policy is currently undergoing stakeholder review and would integrate AI into teaching, research, and institutional operations.
Ribadu made this known in Kaduna during the induction of the first Ph.D. cohort at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies. He emphasized that the NUC is expanding academic programmes in energy science and data science to equip graduates with future ready skills.
"This move is aimed at preparing Nigerian graduates for the evolving global energy landscape and digital economy," Ribadu stated.
He noted that curriculum development remains a continuous process driven by changes in technology and industry demands. The NUC boss commended the Petroleum Technology Development Fund for its investment in human capital development, describing the induction of 43 candidates as a milestone for the nation’s university system.
The event marked the commencement of the PTDF Split Site Ph.D. Scholarship Programme. PTDF Executive Secretary, Ahmed Aminu, revealed that the model is the first of its kind in Nigeria, designed to domesticate the Overseas Scholarship Scheme. Under this arrangement, candidates will receive training both locally and internationally.
"Following a thorough process of screening, shortlisting, and merit based assessment, 43 of the candidates were successful and have been awarded the full PTDF scholarship," Aminu disclosed.
He added that the Fund selected 43 academic advisors, mostly ex scholars with relevant expertise, to provide continuous academic support. The scholars will spend two years at CPESK and one year in partner institutions such as the University of Strathclyde, Robert Gordon University, and the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom.
Some beneficiaries expressed satisfaction with the opportunity. Ms. Hauwa Dukku, a Chemical Engineer with a Masters in Sustainability Engineering, said the scholarship would assist her research in green hydrogen.
"My research area is focused on using renewable energy to produce green hydrogen. The programme will enable me to contribute to sustainability in the country and innovative solutions to the oil and gas industry," Dukku noted.
Another beneficiary, Mr Chukwudi Nweke, described the scholarship as a career boost for his research in gas flare detection. Ribadu urged the inductees to justify their selection, stressing that their contributions would shape the reputation of the institution. "As pioneers, your contributions will shape the reputation and impact of the institution. You must show diligence and responsibility," he concluded.
