Phoenix University Agwada, Nasarawa State, aims to become the nation’s leading hub for Robotic Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), declared the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdullahi Bala.
Addressing journalists at the university’s premises in Agwada, Professor Bala discussed the programs and vision behind the first indigenous private university in Nigeria. He emphasized the promising start Phoenix University has made with its state-of-the-art facilities.
Professor Bala, previously the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Minna, serves as the pioneer head of this unique institution. He explained that Phoenix University is crafted to equip its graduates with valuable skills for contributing to the Nigerian economy and thriving as global players in the evolving socioeconomic landscape.
To achieve this objective and reinforce degrees with practical skills, the university boasts a cutting-edge Robotics Laboratory unmatched in the nation.
“This center is on track to become a vibrant ecosystem fostering expertise in research and development for Robotics, AI, the Internet of Things, and Business Innovation,” Professor Bala elaborated.
The lab currently houses five units: Hardware and software for robotics and drones, Virtual and Augmented Reality, and 3D Printing. These facilities cater to students’ creativity in building robots and drones, while the Virtual Reality Unit offers learning opportunities beyond students’ areas of study through real-time demonstrations from remote locations globally. Ultimately, the Center aspires to become a hub for community service and engagement, where groundbreaking and entrepreneurial ideas will be nurtured, tested, and realized under the guidance of educators, mentors, and skilled artisans.
Furthermore, Professor Bala revealed ongoing developments with the institution’s Creative Leadership Centre. This facility aims to provide students with foundational leadership principles alongside essential soft skills that will equip them for life beyond graduation.
“The Center will collaborate with renowned Leadership Centers to offer online Executive Leadership Courses, benefiting a diverse clientele within and beyond Nigeria,” he added.
