CITAD, BUK Partner to Train Academic Staff on Fintech and Blockchain Innovation

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), in collaboration with the Faculty of Life Sciences, Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has successfully concluded a two-day capacity-building workshop for academic staff on Financial Technology (Fintech), blockchain, and other emerging digital tools.

The training, held from Monday, 22nd to Tuesday, 23rd December 2025 at the Faculty of Life Sciences, was moderated by the Deputy Dean, Dr. Aminu Ahmed Aliko. It focused on how modern technologies can be leveraged to enhance teaching, scientific research, innovation, and academic productivity.

Participants were exposed to practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and digital research tools, with hands-on demonstrations aimed at improving data management, experimental design, research publication, and data integrity.

 The workshop also emphasised transparent authorship, secure research records, and increased visibility for locally generated scientific research.

Speaking at the event, CITAD’s Human Resource Officer, Mr. Sani Sa’idu Muhammad, explained that the programme was designed to bridge the gap between academic research and societal needs.

“This programme strengthens the link between academic research and societal development. While universities generate knowledge, emerging technologies now determine how that knowledge is applied, shared, and sustained,” he said.

He noted that the training was tailored to equip lecturers—particularly in the life sciences—with practical digital skills, where precision, accuracy, and data integrity are critical. Muhammad further stressed that fintech, blockchain, and AI are reshaping research processes globally, underscoring the need for continuous digital upskilling among academics.

“In a fast-evolving, technology-driven world, universities must continuously adapt. For lecturers to remain relevant and competitive, they must update their digital skills and integrate them effectively into teaching and research,” he added.

According to him, targeting academic staff was a strategic decision due to their pivotal role in shaping students and future researchers.

“When lecturers are empowered with relevant digital knowledge, the impact extends beyond the classroom to students, research institutions, and the wider society,” Muhammad said, reaffirming CITAD’s commitment to promoting digital literacy, innovation, and research integrity through partnerships and capacity-building initiatives.

Speaking on behalf of the Dean, Prof. Usman Aliyu Dutsinma, the Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Hajara Haruna, described the workshop as timely and impactful.

“This training has broadened our understanding of how emerging technologies such as blockchain and AI can support scientific research, data management, and publication processes,” she said, commending CITAD’s practical approach in simplifying complex digital concepts.

Also speaking, Prof. Ibrahim L. Abdullahi, a participant, said the workshop had boosted participants’ confidence in integrating emerging digital tools into their teaching and research activities.

“Some of these technologies were new to us, but the training demystified them and demonstrated their relevance to life sciences research. This will positively influence how we conduct research and mentor our students,” he noted.