Sule Lamido University Faculty of Humanities Hosts First International Conference on Contemporary Issues

The Faculty of Humanities at Sule Lamido University Kafin Hausa (SLUK) has successfully hosted its First International Conference, themed "Contemporary Issues in Humanities," on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. The event brought together scholars and key stakeholders to discuss the evolving role of humanities in the modern world, particularly in relation to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Islamic knowledge perspectives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of SLUK, Professor Muhammad Ibrahim Yakasai, emphasized the growing influence of AI across all sectors, including research and education. He called for a critical discourse on how scholars in humanities can effectively integrate AI into their academic pursuits. Professor Yakasai also commended the Faculty for organizing the conference, describing it as a significant academic milestone that reinforces SLUK's leadership in scholarly discussions.

The Keynote Speaker, Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education, Science, and Technology in Jigawa State, Professor Isah Yusuf Chamo, highlighted the State Government’s commitment to education. Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Islamic Education Bureau, Dr. Mubarak Abdulwahab Hassan, Professor Chamo disclosed that over N184 billion had been allocated to the education sector in the 2025 budget, constituting 26.4% of the total budget—surpassing UNESCO’s benchmark. He reiterated the government’s resolve to collaborate with tertiary institutions, including SLUK, in addressing contemporary humanities issues.

A thought-provoking presentation was delivered by Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Sani of the Federal University Dutse (FUD), titled "Viewing Humanities and Social Sciences Through the Islamic Prism." Dr. Sani explored the intersection between Revealed Knowledge and Acquired Knowledge, highlighting their convergences and divergences within humanities. He argued that disciplines such as Philosophy, Theology, Sociology, Political Science, and History could be enriched by incorporating divine knowledge from the Qur’an and Sunnah, thereby striking a balance between reason and revelation.

In his remarks, the Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies at SLUK, Professor Umar Saje, cautioned against the unregulated use of AI, urging that its application should align with Islamic teachings. He also encouraged scholars to participate in parallel discussions to benefit from a wider range of research perspectives.

The Emir of Ringim, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Saiyadi Mahmud Ringim, CON, who was represented by the Chiroman Ringim, Alhaji Usman Saiyadi Mahmud Ringim, underscored the importance of humanities as the foundation of human existence. He advised that while technological innovations should be embraced, they must serve societal well-being and be in harmony with cultural and religious values.

Dr. Idris Hamza Yana, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and Faculty Research, Seminar, and Journal Committee, announced that the Faculty’s journal would soon be launched. He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to organizing regular academic events, including monthly seminars and symposia.

In his vote of thanks, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Dr. Iliyasu Yahaya, expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering support and to the academic community for their collective efforts in making the conference a success. He pledged that the Faculty would continue to foster scholarly excellence through similar academic gatherings.

The conference concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at the School of General and Entrepreneurship Studies, attended by dignitaries and participants, marking a commitment to environmental sustainability alongside academic advancement.