Data Science Nigeria, a leading Nigerian AI organization has launched the first AI (Artificial Intelligence) textbook in Africa. The book was launched at the 2019 AI summit in Lagos, Nigeria. Data Science Nigeria aims to train up to 1 million AI talents by 2029.
Titled ‘Beginners’ Artificial Intelligence & Python Programming for Primary and Junior Secondary Schools’, the book was written by Olubayo Adekanbi. He is the founder of Data Science Nigeria and a leading AI expert. The new book will help introduce kids to the concept of machine learning and deep learning system.
According to Technext.ng, Olubayo Adekanbi revealed that “the vision behind this book is to make it available free of charge. I’m glad to say that one of our immediate partners, Softcom has funded the distribution of the first set of production. The books will be distributed in a very structured way to ensure that the book does not just end up in a school. It will be distributed through the ‘train the trainer program’”.
The ‘train the trainer’ program is a one-day program targeted at mathematics and computer science teachers of public and private schools. The program will guide teachers on how to use the book to train students.
The 2019 AI summit featured top experts across the tech ecosystem. The event featured;
- Tom Diettrich, Professor Emeritus of Computer Science at Oregon State University and Chief Scientist at BigML. He gave a presentation on Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development.
- Stephen Odaibo, CEO of Retina AI Health Inc. He gave a presentation on Artificial Intelligence for Health Care Delivery.
- Tomi Amao, Chief Technical Officer at Softcom Nigeria. He gave a presentation on how businesses and organizations can make better decisions with the adoption of AI.
The event also featured panel sessions with the likes of; Eric Sodomka, a Research Scientist at Facebook; Victor Ohuruogu, Program Manager, UN Foundation Global partnership on sustainable development data; Ayodeji Balogun, CTO Terragon Group, Tomi Amao, CTO Softcom Nigeria and Dr Stephen Odaibo.
The summit ended with Chrisland Schools Opebi winning the debate contest. Juilliard Academy came second while Atlantic Hall secured the third position.
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