University of Lagos Chosen by OpenAI for Africa’s First AI Academy Collaboration

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has emerged as OpenAI’s first African partner for the OpenAI Academy, a milestone that underscores the institution’s growing influence in technology and artificial intelligence research on the continent.

Oct 19, 2025 - 20:26 Updated: Oct 19, 2025 - 20:26

University of Lagos Chosen by OpenAI for Africa’s First AI Academy Collaboration

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has emerged as OpenAI’s first African partner for the OpenAI Academy, a milestone that underscores the institution’s growing influence in technology and artificial intelligence research on the continent.

The announcement came during the UNILAG-OpenAI Fireside Chat, held at the J.F. Ade. Ajayi (Main) Auditorium, marking the climax of the university’s 5th International Week. Mr. Emmanuel Lubanzadio, OpenAI’s Africa Lead, revealed that UNILAG’s location in Lagos, a global technology hub, and the outstanding work of its researchers in AI and Machine Learning were decisive factors in the partnership.

Lubanzadio shared that the collaboration began with a chance connection on LinkedIn with Professor Babatunde Sawyer of UNILAG’s Department of Computer Science, highlighting the power of professional networking in fostering global collaborations.

During the interactive session, moderated by Ms. Toyin Ganiyu of UNILAG’s Office of International Relations, Lubanzadio discussed OpenAI’s mission to expand access to AI tools and promote capacity building. He revealed that ChatGPT now has over 700 million weekly users globally and introduced ChatGPT Go, a low-cost subscription plan aimed at broadening accessibility.

Lubanzadio emphasized the importance of Africa not merely consuming AI but becoming co-creators. He encouraged students and academics to utilize the OpenAI Academy free learning platform to gain skills for research, productivity, and advisory roles. “Africa will make its own way in the AI Age,” he stated, urging stakeholders to prioritize AI literacy and empower the continent’s youthful talent pool.

Addressing concerns over potential over-reliance on AI in academics, Lubanzadio acknowledged the issue and promised to relay feedback to OpenAI’s Education Department for consideration in future technology updates.

UNILAG’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Afolabi Lesi, reminded students to maintain their critical thinking and originality, noting that AI should supplement, not replace, human thought.

The Fireside Chat concluded Day 4 of UNILAG’s International Week 2025, leaving attendees inspired to explore AI’s potential and collaborate globally.

About Emmanuel Lubanzadio: As Africa Lead at OpenAI, Lubanzadio oversees strategic engagements, policy partnerships, and ecosystem development across the continent.