By DAYO ADESULU
Yaba College of Technology has entered into a strategic partnership with Raotech IT Electro-mechanical Limited to establish an Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Innovation Hub aimed at strengthening technology-driven education and preparing students for emerging global opportunities.
The partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding facilitated by the institution’s Centre for Linkages, Partnerships and International Relations. The initiative is expected to deepen collaboration between academia and industry while promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and advanced digital skills development among students and staff.
Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the institution’s Council Chamber, Rector of the college, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul described the initiative as a timely intervention that would position the institution among leading technology-focused higher institutions in Nigeria.
According to him, the establishment of the innovation hub would expose students to cutting-edge knowledge in artificial intelligence, robotics and digital transformation, equipping them with practical skills needed in the rapidly evolving global technology space.
He stressed that the institution was eager to commence implementation immediately, noting that innovation and research opportunities around the world are expanding rapidly and institutions must move quickly to take advantage of them.
The rector further explained that the collaboration aligns with the college’s vision of promoting research, technological advancement and industry-relevant education capable of enhancing graduate employability and national development.
Also speaking, Director of the Centre for Linkages, Partnerships and International Relations, Dr. Moshood Ajala said the agreement supports the Centre’s mandate of establishing science, technology and business incubation hubs within the institution.
Ajala noted that the proposed AI and Robotics Innovation Hub would function as a platform for training, innovation, certification and entrepreneurial development. He added that the initiative would provide opportunities for students, professionals and technology enthusiasts to acquire globally relevant skills and certifications in emerging technologies.
He explained that the project would also create additional sources of internally generated revenue for the institution through commercial partnerships, innovation projects and technology-driven programmes.
According to him, artificial intelligence and robotics are no longer fields restricted to computer science or engineering alone, as their applications now extend across various academic disciplines and industries.
Ajala further revealed that the agreement includes a revenue-sharing structure designed to ensure sustainability, effective maintenance and long-term benefits for all parties involved in the collaboration.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Raotech IT Electro-mechanical Limited, Oluwadamilare Olanrewaju, said the company has spent over 15 years training and mentoring young Nigerians in technology and innovation.
He explained that the vision behind the collaboration was inspired by successful innovation ecosystems established around robotics and emerging technologies in leading institutions across the world.
Olanrewaju stated that the company remains committed to supporting the college in building a globally competitive innovation ecosystem capable of empowering students and driving technological advancement in Nigeria.
He added that the organisation had previously facilitated collaborations between the institution and both international and local technology firms, including Autoreg and Semicolon.
According to him, the company has also supported students through internship placements, industrial training programmes and employment opportunities aimed at bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry experience.
The partnership is expected to boost research, innovation and practical learning within the institution while contributing to Nigeria’s growing digital economy and technological development agenda.
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