Taofeek Musa Abubakar writes that the Kaduna State governor has launched an initiative meant to bring AI to Hausa speakers across Nigeria Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has taken some giant steps that put the state firmly in the driver’s seat in the field of Information Communications Technology (ICT) in Northern Nigeria. With the disclosure recently during a stakeholders engagement on the draft “National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill” by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in Kaduna, it’s is obvious that Governor Uba Sani is way ahead of the lot in this area. Represented by the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs Patience Fakai, the governor revealed that his administration has trained over 5,000 women across the state in ICT by collaborating with Data Science Nigeria (DSN) and Google.Org in the “Arewa Ladies4Tech Initiative” across the state. The outcome, the governor said, is that “most of these ladies have become gainfully employed, some internationally, working remotely from the comfort of their homes”. But more fundamental is the revelation that Uba Sani has launched the AI4All Initiative that is meant to bring AI to Hausa speakers across Nigeria and beyond. It is important that this initiative be thoroughly examined to unearth possible advantages via a visits application for knowledge acquisition by youths and students in the state through series of short lessons on AI in Hausa language which are downloadable from NITDA site and can be shared by phone with others. And, here again, Governor Uba Sani has scored yet another first through the AI Hausa as the first of its kind in Africa. The question is what are the specific deliverables from Governor Sani’s initiative in this regard? In modern education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into knowledge gathering represents a remarkable advancement for societies worldwide. In Northern Nigeria, where access to quality education and resources has historically been challenged by socio-economic and cultural factors, the recent initiatives led by the Governor of Kaduna State spotlight the transformative potential of AI. By promoting ICT education centered around AI applications, particularly in the Hausa language, the governor is paving the way for enhanced educational opportunities for the youth and students of the region. Northern Nigeria has long faced significant challenges in education, such as inadequate infrastructure, low literacy rates, and a lack of qualified teachers. The introduction of AI into knowledge gathering can help bridge these gaps by providing a more flexible and personalized learning experience. AI-powered platforms can adapt to individual learning styles and paces. By utilizing local languages like Hausa, AI tools can communicate complex concepts, making education more accessible and engaging for students. This localized approach ensures that educational materials are not just translated, but culturally relevant, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the content. In this regard, the quality of education in Northern Nigeria can be significantly improved through AI-driven initiatives. These technologies can assist educators by providing analytics that identify areas where students struggle, allowing for tailored teaching methods that can address specific needs. Moreover, AI can offer diverse educational resources, from interactive lessons to gamified learning experiences that maintain student interest and motivation. This integration not only promotes a deeper understanding of subjects but also equips students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the modern workforce. AI can significantly enhance access to educational resources, especially in remote and rural communities where educational facilities may be limited. Online platforms powered by AI can host vast libraries of information, courses, and materials that are accessible to anyone with internet connectivity. By incorporating local languages, such as Hausa, these platforms can ensure that students are not disenfranchised by language barriers. This democratization of knowledge allows even the most marginalized youths to engage with quality educational materials, thereby leveling the playing field. Governor Uba Sani’s approach to ICT education is not just about content; it is equally about developing digital literacy skills among the youth. In a technology-driven world, the ability to navigate digital platforms and understand AI tools is crucial for future employment opportunities. By championing AI-driven knowledge, the government is investing in the future workforce of Northern Nigeria. Initiatives that teach students how to use AI technologies will empower them, giving them the skills needed to thrive in various fields such as data science, software development, and cyber security. The introduction of AI into education can serve as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship in Northern Nigeria. As students become acquainted with AI technology, they also cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset that is essential for driving economic growth. AI education encourages creativity and the application of knowledge to solve real-world problems, which is crucial for developing innovative solutions tailored to local challenges. By supporting a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs, the region can look forward to economic diversification and job creation. In a region like Northern Nigeria, where tradition is rich and cultures are unique, the incorporation of AI-driven knowledge gathering in the Hausa language serves a dual purpose. It not only addresses educational and economic needs but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage. AI can help document languages, stories, folklore, and traditions, ensuring they are not lost to the passage of time. By engaging students with their cultural heritage through modern technology, Governor Uba Sani’s initiatives help foster a sense of pride and identity. This cultural preservation is vital for reinforcing community values and connecting young individuals to their roots even as they navigate the complexities of modern society. A multifaceted approach to education involving AI fosters collaboration among students, educators, and communities. AI systems that facilitate collaborative learning experiences can connect students from various backgrounds, allowing them to work on projects and share knowledge. This teamwork is not only a skill they will need in future workplaces but also a means to break down tribal and socio-economic barriers. The collaborative environment fostered by AI promotes social cohesion and empowers students to become change agents within their communities. The shift towards AI-driven knowledge is more than an educational initiative; it has the potential to stimulate overall regional development. By equipping the youth of Kaduna State with advanced knowledge and skills, the government is nurturing a generation capable of contributing to various sectors, including technology, agriculture, health, and governance. This shift can lead to greater innovation, increased productivity, and improved public services. In turn, these developments can help attract investments to the region, creating job opportunities and enhancing the local economy. In conclusion, the leadership of Governor Uba Sani in integrating AI-driven knowledge gathering within Northern Nigeria’s educational framework signifies a forward-thinking approach to confronting historical challenges. By focusing on ICT education in local languages, promoting digital literacy, and emphasizing cultural preservation, these initiatives can transform the educational landscape, empower youth, and unlock untapped potential. In a world increasingly governed by technology, the embrace of AI not only enhances access to knowledge but also equips the youth of Northern Nigeria with the tools they need to thrive, fostering a new generation of informed, skilled, and capable individuals who hold the key to unlocking a promising future for their communities and the entire region. Abubakar, an ICT Specialist, writes from AbujaFormer US President Jimmy Carter dies at 100
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FACT FOCUS: Vermont ruling does not say schools can vaccinate children without parental consentEmpowering educators: UoG-HEC collaborative workshop concludesPenn State, with balanced scoring, pulls away from PennSnell was introduced Tuesday at Dodger Stadium accompanied by his agent Scott Boras. The left-hander finalized a $182 million, five-year contract last Saturday. “It was really easy just cause me and Haeley wanted to live here, it’s something we’ve been talking about for a while,” Snell said, referring to his girlfriend. “Then you look at the team. You look at what they’ve built, what they’re doing. It’s just something you want to be a part of.” Last month, Snell opted out of his deal with San Francisco to become a free agent for the second consecutive offseason after he was slowed by injuries during his lone year with the San Francisco Giants. Snell gets a $52 million signing bonus, payable on Jan. 25, and annual salaries of $26 million, of which $13.2 million each year will be deferred . Because Snell is a Washington state resident, the signing bonus will not be subject to California income tax. “It just played out the way that people around me felt comfortable with, I felt comfortable with, they felt comfortable with,” Snell said. “We talked and found something that could work for both of us. You want your worth, you want your respect, and you want enough time to where you can really make a name for yourself. I've made a name for myself outside of LA, but I'm going to be invested.” Two-way star Ohtani, who signed a record $700 million, 10-year deal a year ago, had a historic first season with the Dodgers. He helped them win the franchise's eighth World Series while playing only as designated hitter and became MVP in the National League for the first time after twice winning the award while in the American League. “It helps with him in the lineup for sure. That’s big motivation,” Snell said. “You want to be around players like that when you’re trying to be one of the best in the game. Yeah, it played a big part.” Snell joins Ohtani and fellow Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto atop Los Angeles’ rotation. All-Star Tyler Glasnow will be back after having his first season in LA derailed by a sprained elbow. Ohtani didn’t pitch this year while recovering from right elbow surgery but is expected back on the mound in 2025. The rest of the rotation includes Tony Gonsolin, Landon Knack, Dustin May, Bobby Miller and Emmet Sheehan. “I pitched on six-man, five-man, four-man rotations,” Snell said. “I'm good with it all as long as we have a plan, we'll execute it.” Snell, who turns 32 on Wednesday, went 5-3 with a 3.12 ERA in 20 starts this year, throwing a no-hitter at Cincinnati on Aug. 2 for one of only 16 individual shutouts in the major leagues this season. He struck out 145 and walked 44 in 104 innings. He was sidelined between April 19 and May 22 by a strained left adductor and between June 2 and July 9 by a strained left groin. Snell won Cy Young Awards in 2018 with Tampa Bay and 2023 with San Diego. He is 76-58 with a 3.19 ERA in nine seasons with the Rays (2016-20), Padres (2021-23) and Giants. He has known Andrew Friedman, Dodgers president of baseball operations, since he was 18. In the aftermath of winning the World Series and discussing how the Dodgers could repeat next year, Friedman said, “All conversations kept coming back to Blake.” “Usually in major league free agency, you're buying the backside of a guy's career, the accomplishments that they have had,” he said. “With Blake, one thing that's really exciting for us is, as much success as he's had, we feel like there's more in there." Snell was 2-2 against the Dodgers in his career. “We couldn’t beat him, so we’re going to have him join us,” Friedman said. .___ AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB
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A record number of travelers are expected to close out 2024, according to estimates from AAA. Overall, AAA estimates that more than 119 million people will travel 50 miles or more to close out the year and year-end holidays, recognizing this period as Saturday, December 21, to Wednesday, January 1. If the figure holds, it breaks the previous records made in 2019. This would also amount to about three million more travelers than last year, which saw just over 116 million. The breakdown estimates that most, 107 million, will travel by vehicle —2.5 million more than traveled by car in 2023 — followed by 7.85 million who will travel by air and 4.47 million who will travel by “other,” which include trains, buses, and cruises. AAA surmises that most opt to travel by vehicle because of the lower cost and all-around flexibility traveling by air does not provide. Per the press release: AAA expects air travel to set a new record this holiday season with 7.85 million passengers. That number surpasses the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers last year. AAA booking data shows flights are 4% more expensive this holiday season compared to last year. The average domestic ticket is $830. International flights are 13% more expensive, averaging $1,630 a ticket. Many Americans were really feeling the drawbacks of air travel on Christmas Eve, as all American Airlines flights were grounded in the U.S. early Tuesday morning because of a technical issue: Driving has its drawbacks as well, however. AAA recognizes some of the worst travel times by car as Thursday, December 26, between 12:00 p.m and 5:00 p.m., December 27 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., December 28 from 1:30 pm to 7:00 p.m., December 29 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., December 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and January 2 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. “This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” Vice President of AAA Travel Stacey Barber said in a statement. “This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we’re anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekend before and the weekend after the holiday,” she added. This forecast follows AAA’s Thanksgiving prediction, as it estimated that a record number of people were traveling over that holiday period as well — nearly 80 million.https://arab.news/n4cm5 RIYADH: Investment strategies must be compatible with sustainable development goals to ensure economically viable and environmentally responsible global growth, a top official said at the World Investment Conference. Speaking on the first day of the Riyad-based event, James Zhan, chair of the WIC executive board, said reforming the global financial system should be a priority alongside helping to deliver social and environmental reform. The 28th WIC is being held from Nov. 25 to 27, and will see global stakeholders gather to explore investment trends and how best to foster sustainable development. During a panel discussion titled “Impact Maximization: Leveraging Trade and Investment for Growth and Development,” Zhan said: “We need to embed investment strategies into the SDG implementation plans. We need to transform these international investment regimes into a kind of SDG promotion instrument.” The SDGs are a set of 17 global objectives established by the UN to address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, aiming to achieve a sustainable and equitable future by 2030. Zhan also called for transforming international investment: “We need to be practicing incentives for investment on the ground.” Ibrahim Al-Mubarak, assistant minister of investment and CEO of the Saudi Investment Promotion Authority, outlined the Kingdom’s focused approach to investment. “Our investment strategy focuses on quality, FDI. That’s a very big word. So, what I like to call it is smart capital,” he said. Al-Mubarak also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s reform journey under Vision 2030, saying: “Since the launch of Vision 2030, we have set a very ambitious reform agenda. That reform agenda comes in various ways, be it in the reform of existing laws, launching new laws, removing subsidies.” These reforms aim to bolster the Kingdom’s investment environment, which has already been recognized as the 16th most competitive economy globally, according to the IMD’s World Competitiveness Index. Al-Mubarak highlighted the significance of comprehensive and consistent regulatory reforms in enhancing investment appeal. One measure of this is the success of Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters Program, which came into effect in January and encouraged multinational companies to set up regional offices in Riyadh. “We already have exceeded our target by having 550 regional headquarters companies here. Our location, our infrastructure, our youth are enabling us to achieve those (goals), but they have to be clubbed with positive, unified, consistent regulatory reform agenda,” Al-Mubarak said. The assistant minister highlighted that attracting investments requires groundwork, adding: “The promotion piece of investment is one thing, but the attraction is a much tougher one because it requires a lot more reforms and work on the ground, on the infrastructure, on the policies, on the procedures.” Chairman of the Berlin Global Dialogue and Professor of Economics at the European School of Management and Technology Lars-Hendrik Roller called for a broader perspective on global investments. “The world is changing, and now I think we need to look eye level (at) Africa and other continents as well,” he said. He also cautioned about the interplay of foreign policy and national security with economic agendas, adding: “What is now overarching more and more (is) foreign policy and economic policy, national security issues. And I think we have to be very careful with that.” Roller pointed out the distorting effects of subsidies on global markets and stressed the urgency of private investments in the green economy, saying: “We’re not going to solve the climate crisis unless we generate a lot more private investment in the green economy.”None