As part of ongoing efforts to position Enugu State as a leading centre for technology-driven growth and innovation, Governor Peter Mbah has intensified his administration’s push for experiential, skills-based education that prioritises practical knowledge over conventional classroom learning.
In furtherance of this vision, a high-powered delegation from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has arrived in Doha, Qatar, for a strategic academic study tour focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovation, applied learning, and technology implementation frameworks.
The delegation, led by the Vice-Chancellor of ESUT, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, is engaging in a series of visits to leading academic institutions and innovation centres across Qatar to gain firsthand insight into globally recognised models of experiential learning and technological advancement.
Renowned for its world-class educational institutions and strong commitment to applied learning, Qatar offers a valuable platform for the delegation to study best practices that can be adapted to strengthen higher education and innovation in Enugu State.
A major objective of the visit is to advance plans for the establishment of a Centre for Artificial Intelligence Studies, Research and Innovation at ESUT. The proposed centre is envisioned as a catalyst for cutting-edge research, industry collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning opportunities for students and faculty.
Speaking during the visit, Professor Okolie emphasised the importance of learning from successful global models.
“We must understudy proven systems and engage with leading experts to ensure that our academic programmes align with international standards in Robotics, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, and other emerging technologies,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that members of the delegation were carefully selected to support Enugu State’s broader education and innovation agenda. He also commended Governor Mbah for his commitment to transforming education through technology and positioning the state as a knowledge-driven economy.
Representatives of the host institutions reaffirmed their willingness to support the initiative, stressing that while technology offers immense opportunities, its impact depends largely on responsible application, governance, and ethical considerations.
As part of the programme, the delegation toured several innovation hubs and educational facilities where experts delivered presentations on global education trends, AI deployment strategies, and emerging technology ecosystems.
During one of the sessions, Dr. Dhamir Mannai, a Cloud and Cyber Security Systems specialist, highlighted the growing importance of integrating Artificial Intelligence into contemporary academic curricula. According to him, universities must continually adapt to technological advancements to remain relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving global environment.
The team also visited prominent educational institutions, including Al Maha Academy for Boys, with further engagements scheduled at leading tertiary institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University Qatar.
Officials involved in the initiative said the proposed AI centre at ESUT is expected to emerge as a centre of excellence, offering industry-oriented training, research opportunities, innovation support, and professional development programmes for students, academics, and technology practitioners.
Deliberations in Doha also examined the opportunities and challenges presented by Artificial Intelligence. Stakeholders underscored the need for responsible adoption and robust regulatory frameworks to address concerns relating to ethics, misinformation, and AI-generated content.
They further pledged technical support, expert guidance, and collaborative partnerships aimed at ensuring the successful establishment and operation of the proposed centre.
The delegation comprises key academic and administrative officials of ESUT, including the Director of Academic Planning, Professor Chike Anibeze; Registrar, Ambrose Ugwu; Chairman of the MoU Committee, Professor Titus Enudu; Director of Physical Planning, Professor Frank Iloeje; Director of TETFund, Dr. Onyekachi Egwuagu; Dr. Jonathan Okolie from the Office of the Vice-Chancellor; and Qatar-based technology expert, Samson Eneje.
Beyond enhancing institutional understanding of AI and emerging technologies, the visit is expected to yield strategic recommendations that will strengthen the integration of Artificial Intelligence into teaching, research, innovation, and overall educational development in Enugu State.
