Exploring the 2025 International Week at the University of Lagos: A Deep Dive into AI and Collaborative Futures
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is gearing up for an exciting and transformative event: the 2025 International Week, scheduled from October 13 to 17, 2025. Under the engaging theme of “Equitable Partnerships and the Future of AI in Africa,” this week-long gathering aims to spotlight the intersection of artificial intelligence, innovation, and global collaboration in shaping Africa’s technological landscape.
Distinguished Speakers and Experts
One of the most captivating aspects of this event is the lineup of influential speakers. Keynotes will be delivered by Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Africa Lead at OpenAI—known for its revolutionary AI technology, including ChatGPT; Yvonne Ike, Managing Director and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at the Bank of America; Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, an entrepreneurial force and Founding Partner of Future Africa.
Their insights promise to set a dynamic tone for discussions, ensuring a blend of local and global perspectives as they tackle pressing challenges and opportunities within the realm of AI.
Topics of Discussion
The International Week serves as a platform to engage various stakeholders—from senior government officials to global development partners. The programme will encompass a wide range of discussions focused on pressing issues, such as ethical AI governance, digital stewardship, educational innovation, and startup financing.
Among the highlight sessions, a particularly anticipated discussion will focus on public procurement and digital governance. Dr. Adedokun, the head of Nigeria’s Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), will illuminate the nation’s shift toward digital procurement and the vital role it plays in fostering transparency and innovation.
Celebrating Young Innovators
The event doesn’t just emphasize established leaders; it also shines a spotlight on emerging talents. One such innovator is Adeleke Eniola, a final-year Applied Physics student at UNILAG. Eniola’s creation, RiaScope, is an AI-powered diagnostic tool designed to detect malaria affordably in low-resource communities. Her work exemplifies how local ingenuity can tackle significant public health challenges and demonstrates the potential for technology-driven solutions rooted in community needs.
Networking and Collaborations
UNILAG’s International Week aims to facilitate networking among diverse professionals. Attendees will include academics, financiers, and technology innovators from both within Africa and abroad, laying the groundwork for future collaborations. These interactions are expected to yield actionable outcomes—be it policy recommendations, academic partnerships, or new investment opportunities—all geared toward strengthening Africa’s digital landscape.
Organizers’ Insights
Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, believes that this gathering is critical for bridging the gaps between academia, industry, and government. She emphasizes the necessity for Africa to claim its place in the global tech ecosystem, advocating for equitable and inclusive partnerships in AI development.
Moreover, Ismail Ibraheem, Director of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects at UNILAG, asserts that the International Week transcends mere ceremonial significance. Established in 2019, it has evolved into a pivotal platform fostering practical collaborations and establishing the university as a hub for international engagement.
Partnerships with Global Institutions
UNILAG’s ongoing partnerships with international institutions further underscore its commitment to global collaboration. Collaborations with entities like Nottingham Trent University and the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC) focus on research, mobility, and skills development, enhancing the university’s role as a leader in academic and technological innovation.
Through these partnerships, the university continues to cultivate a rich environment where knowledge exchange thrives, nurturing both local and global talent in the race toward a technologically advanced future.
Ethical Considerations and Challenges
As the discussions unfold during International Week, it is crucial to address ethical considerations in AI development. Panelists will deliberate on the implications of AI governance, emphasizing the need for responsible practices that ensure technology serves equitable purposes rather than exacerbating societal divides.
By engaging with these complex issues, UNILAG seeks to contribute to the broader dialogue on how Africa can navigate its own technological journey, ensuring that progress is inclusive and sustainable.
In summary, the 2025 International Week at the University of Lagos promises to be an engaging, insightful gathering that not only highlights the immense potential of AI in Africa but also sets the stage for equitable partnerships and collaborative solutions to address the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities.