What you need to know about the recently approved tech institution

abiola

September 5, 2017 11:38 AM

From what is being presented on paper, the future of the tech industry in Nigeria looks bright.

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University of Nigeria, its first ever in Africa was recently approved by the Federal Executive Council of Nigeria.

Here is some gist we have found out about the university said to commence soon according to the Minister of Communication Adebayo Shittu.

Courses in emerging technologies will be offered

Emerging specialist courses in ICT such as Cloud computing, Computer Forensics, Internet Of Things, Telecommunications and Big Data, Robotic embedded systems, Cybersecurity, Digital media and Entertainment Technology are reckoned to be on offer.

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Global giants in tech will be showing support

As a public-private partnership strategy, the ICT university will be supported by global technology leaders such as Cisco, Huawei, Siemens, Samsung, Apple, IBM among others.

“These industry giants have expressed their unequivocal support for this project with pledges in the provision of Faculty, library content, syllabus, logistics, including funds towards the realization of ICT university of Nigeria,” the Minister says.

The varsity will be run independently and across the six-geopolitical zones of the country

The independent path the university will be having is coming on the heels of it not having any control over any of the other existing universities, its faculties or departments. Campuses will be spread across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria.

Major focus will be on postgraduate programmes

The minister of information has said only 30% is allocated to undergraduate programmes. The focus will be majorly on postgraduate programmes including Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters degree, and Doctorate degree programs for graduates.

Industry relevant research will be promoted

Adequate well-funded research has always been a major concern in tertiary institutions. This new ICT university is advocating for industry tailored research, to be a link between the academia and industry, expected to bring about innovation through joint research and development programs as well as allow for constant improvement of the program.

Policies and framework have to be in sync with this laudable initiative for it to work. Time would tell if this isn’t mere rhetorics as antecedence has proved.

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