LASUED, Nigeria Computer Society Explore Strategic Partnership to Build Digital Talent and Innovation Capacity

‎In a bid to bridge the widening gap between academia and industry, the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) Lagos Chapter, on Tuesday 23rd June, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) with proposed robust, multi-tiered collaboration framework. The collaboration, built around the theme "Building Lagos's Digital Talent Pipeline: Empowering Education, Innovation and Enterprise," seeks to align academic training with emerging technology demands and position students for innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry relevance.

‎

‎The visit held at the Multimedia Complex Room of the Vice Chancellor's office was presided over by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Daodu Moruf Adedayo while representing the Vice Chancellor (LASUED) Prof. Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye. In his remarks, he highlighted LASUED's transformation since its establishment on February 2nd, 2022, following the merger of the former Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) and Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED). He noted that the transition from colleges of education to a university of education was necessitated by declining enrollment in National Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes. According to him, the institution has witnessed remarkable growth since attaining university status, expanding from an initial intake of over 3,000 students in 2022 to a current population of approximately 16,000 students across its two campuses in Oto/Ijanikin and Noforija, Epe. He further disclosed that LASUED is preparing for a historic milestone as its pioneer students conclude their final examinations ahead of the university's maiden convocation ceremony scheduled for later this year.

‎

‎Speaking on behalf of the visitors, the Chairman, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Dr. Adeshina Adewale described Lagos as Africa's emerging innovation capital, citing the state's technological advancements and global platforms such as the Art of Technology (AOT) Conference and GITEX. The society proposed structured student engagement initiatives that would integrate members of the Nigeria Association of Computing Students (NACOS) into professional networks before graduation, enabling them to transform academic projects into market-driven solutions. Students would also benefit from opportunities such as the Don Etiebet Innovative Prize, a ₦1 million annual award for outstanding final-year computing projects, and the Salako Mavin Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Prize, which promotes excellence in AI and robotics. The NCS further highlighted funding opportunities available through the Lagos State Science, Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC) for viable student-led technology projects.

‎

‎The proposed partnership also focuses on strengthening teacher education and digital pedagogy through continuous professional development programmes for lecturers and student-teachers, particularly in AI-enabled teaching methodologies. 

‎

‎Emphasising the need to align academic learning with workplace realities, the Secretary, NCS Lagos Chapter, Mr. Fambegbe Emmanuel noted that the future of work is increasingly remote, hybrid, and AI-driven, making practical skills essential for graduate success. The society also stressed the importance of responsible AI use through Lagos State's STAND framework, warning against emerging threats such as deepfakes and AI-enabled fraud.

‎

‎Prof. Daodu welcomed the initiative, noting that increased student participation in professional certifications, technology training, and industry-focused programmes would not only enhance employability but also discourage involvement in social vices. The proposed framework is expected to serve as the foundation for future collaborative programmes between LASUED and the Nigeria Computer Society, Lagos Chapter.

‎

‎The meeting was concluded by a vote of thanks delivered by the University Registrar, Mr. Akinfemiwa Opeoluwa.

‎