Digital Revolution: KWSG Urges Youth Participation In AI Research

Ilorin, Kwara State– The Kwara State Government has emphasized its commitment to nurturing a thriving environment for the youth of the state.

Hon. Usman Yunusa Lade, the Supervising Commissioner for the Ministry of Youth Development, has urged young people to venture into the digital realm by actively participating in the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS).

This is contained in a statement by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Kwara State, Oluwafemi Samuel Adeoye, on Saturday,  October 28, 2023.

NAIRS is an initiative aimed at cultivating a vibrant and sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem in Nigeria.

The program offers financial support, encourages knowledge sharing, and promotes collaboration among individuals and organizations in the AI industry.

He stressed the importance of the youth’s involvement in the scheme and highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance the technical skills of young people in the digital sector.

The efforts include the establishment of the state-of-the-art Ilorin Innovation Hub, the International Conference Centre, the Kwara Visual Arts Centre, and the Kwara Sugar Film Factory, among others.

The application window for NAIRS opened on the 13th of October and will close on the 15th of November, 2023. The scheme is an initiative of the Federal Government under the Ministry of Communication and Innovation Digital Economy, aimed at advancing technological progress.

According to him, “The state government is urging and encouraging our youths to be applicants and participants of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS). This initiative is part of the administration’s strategic efforts to reshape the state’s economy, create job opportunities, empower the youth, and enhance the standard of living for all Kwarans.”

Furthermore, the Commissioner highlighted that NAIRS will not only benefit researchers in the AI field but also open up opportunities for deeper exploration and contribute to building a sustainable AI ecosystem within Kwara State and the nation as a whole.

For more information and to apply, visit [NAIRS Application Portal](airg.nitda.gov.ng/#).