BY RITA OYIBOKA
INTERNATIONALLY acclaimed environmental conservationist and Founder of the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE), Dr. Newton Jibunoh, has emphasized the need to ensure digital empowerment among young people as vital platform for future development as well as critical element in addressing the ‘japa’ syndrome.
He made this statement yesterday during the ‘From Campus to Tech Career – AI-Powered Digital Marketing Opportunities’ event held at the ETF 1000-Sitting Capacity Hall of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.
The event, sponsored by Dr. Jibunoh, brought together students of the institution, state government officials, industry experts and school management, aimed at exposing students to the vast opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital marketing, featuring insightful discussions and practical demonstrations.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Jibunoh highlighted the urgency of integrating the younger generation into digital transformation platforms.
“With a long-term goal of transforming the Sahara and promoting sustainable development in the region, it is crucial to involve the younger generation. This is being achieved through digital empowerment, as the world is rapidly moving towards a digital future”. “That is why we have slightly shifted focus from the Desert Warrior programme to embrace the digital age because it is the most effective way to engage and equip young people for the challenges ahead,” he said.
The event featured a lecture delivered by the CEO of Webbit Technologies, Mr. Ajayi Adebayo, who spoke extensively on digital marketing, web development, and graphic design.
Meanwhile, the Student Union Government (SUG) President of Dennis Osadebay University, Comrade Ifechukude Ukwanedua, has underscored the necessity of AI integration in education.
“AI is something that is overtaking and overpowering every other form of manpower that had existed before. That is why the Desert Warrior himself deemed it fit to come and share his wealth of experience with us. Some students may have considered learning online skills but, out of fear of being scammed, are hesitant to take a step forward”.
“Others do not know at all about how to earn extra money. Fortunately, these trusted individuals have come to our school to provide us with first-hand information, so students are now aware of how to go about legitimately making extra income,” she said.
She further noted that digital literacy among students would serve as a deterrent to negative activities. “It certainly will, because when students have something tangible to do, they will not have time to think about engaging in negative activities.”
Speaking with newsmen, Dr. Jibunoh addressed the significance of the programme, he noted,
“We have transitioned from the era of slide rules to computers and calculators, then to GPS and beyond. Now, we are entering the age of AI. An occasion like this serves as a platform for young people to explore innovations and the various technological advancements emerging.”
“We cannot afford to be left behind. However, just as we are catching up, another technology comes into play. The sooner we become active and young participants in the field of artificial intelligence, the better it will be for our country, and all of us.”
