ABUAD VC Harps On Harnessing Technological Advancement For Devt

The Vice-Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Prof Smaranda Olarinde, has stressed the need to harness the potential of technological advancement in the country, describing electro-computing innovations as powerful emerging tools that will help to address challenges and improve the human condition.

She said such technologies are necessary to navigate the complexities of the 21st century successfully.

Prof Olarinde spoke yesterday in Ado Ekiti at the opening ceremony of the three-day IEEE International Conference on Electro-Computing for Sustainable Development, which the university is hosting.

The ABUAD VC said the conference, themed “Empowering Human: The Future of Electro-Computing Technologies,” is a timely call to action to harness the potential of technological advancements.

She said, “The theme of this conference underscores the urgent need to leverage electro-computing technologies to address pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare disparities”.

She said scholar Butcher et al. (2023) argued, “The rapid pace of technical progress necessitates a proactive approach to ensure that these innovations are developed and deployed ethically and responsibly.

“By aligning technological advancements with societal goals, we can create a future where technology serves as a force for good rather than a source of division and inequality.

“For instance, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning can revolutionise healthcare by enabling early disease detection, personalised treatment plans, and drug discovery.

(Laura et.al., 2021).

“Similarly, renewable energy technologies powered by electro-computing systems can help mitigate impacts of climate change and promote sustainable development”.

Earlier, the Chairman of IEEE Nigeria Section, Prof. Mrs Ifeyinwa Achumba, said the conference’s theme underscores the transformative role of emerging technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and sustainable systems in reshaping society.

“What was once the realm of science fiction is now an integral part of our daily lives, driving progress in healthcare, education, industry, and beyond. As members of IEEE and participants in this conference, we find ourselves at the forefront of this technological evolution, harnessing electro-computing to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

“Let us not only focus on advancing technology but also on ensuring that these innovations are inclusive, ethical and impactful for all”.

Delivering his keynote address, the acting Vice-Chancellor of Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Prof. Marwan Al-Akaidi, urged the people to embrace the advancement of a greener and brighter future.