Church of Nigeria, Diocese of Nnewi unveils multi million laboratory for AI, Robotics

From Ijeoma John Nnewi

The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Diocese of Nnewi has unveiled multi million Artificial intelligence Robotics and Digital Innovation Hub that will help by providing experience, fostering innovation, equipping the students with skills to excel in different fields, leading the future of technology whether as creators,educators or ethical leaders in AI.

The project was unveiled on Saturday, 17th of August, 2024,by the Bishop of Diocese of Nnewi, Rt.Rev.Ndubuisi Obi at Bishop Uzodike Memorial Seminary,Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Speaking during the occasion, Bishop Ndubuisi Obi said the Initiative was the first in Church of Nigeria, perhaps in Africa.

He disclosed they embarked on this journey three years ago which according to him some thought it was a bit ambitious.

Rt. Rev.Obi said when the journey started, they taught their secondary school students about Robotics Coding and Artificial Intelligence.

Based on the teaching,Bishop Obi said their students wanted to dig deeper, explore further and be more than participants.

” As their Bishop, I couldn’t just sit back and watch their enthusiasm fizzle out.
” I asked myself, What would be most sustainable way to engage our students in this rapidly evolving world of technology” he said

Rt Rev. Obi revealed that the birth of AI and Robotics Hub was not only to sustain their students’ interests but also to put their Diocese on the map as a leader in technology education.

Bishop Obi said they could not found a better partner than EDUFUN Technik led by a remarkable young lady Uchenna Onwuamaegbu- Ugwu,a Harvard Graduate.

He further disclosed that the Hub would inspire the students to pursue careers in cutting- edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Science, Cybersecurity, IoT among others.

Bishop Obi appreciated the efforts of their Benefactors who had the interest of education at heart.

He appreciated Chief Sir Emma Bishop Okonkwo( Ikenga Ichi) who built an edifice for all the Laboratories single- handedly at Carol Standard,Ichi.

Bishop also appreciated Engr Sir Emeka Okwuosa who also built one in his school, Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Convent ,Oraifite,Anambra State.

Rt Rev Obi finally commended the Chairman Dozzy Oil &Gas ,Chief Dan Chukwudozie for all his support especially a laboratory he built in his school,adding that he was convinced that he would build one at Okija.

EDUFUN Technik leader,Lady Uchenna Onwuamaegbu- Ugwu who spoke during the occasion, said she dreamt for the actualization of this vision many years ago.

She showed her gratitude to God for making this day a success.

Lady Onwuamaegbu- Ugwu described Bishop Obi as a man of vision and unwavering commitment to the future of their Students.

She revealed that Rt Rev Obi saw the potential of the program immediately and understood that it was not just about keeping up with the times,but about giving their children the tools they need to excel, thrive and to lead in this rapidly changing world.

“It was 2021 that I finally met Bishop Ndubuisi Obi.When I was first introduced to him,the person who brought us together assured me with absolute certainty that once he hears it,it’s done deal” she noted