The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) recently conducted a workshop for 31 academic staff at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, Kano State. The program focused on equipping lecturers with practical skills in artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and digital research tools.
This one-day capacity-building event took place at the college campus and was designed to enhance academic research, transparency, and the verification of knowledge through modern technological approaches. Participants gained hands-on experience in using AI for scholarly work, managing data with digital tools, and understanding blockchain applications in higher education settings.
During the opening session, CITAD’s Executive Director, Y. Z. Ya’u, who was represented by Communication Officer Ali Sabo, emphasized that the initiative aims to close the widening knowledge gap in emerging technologies within tertiary institutions across Northern Nigeria. He noted that the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, is the fourth institution to host the program, following Bayero University Kano, KHAIRUN University, and Baba Ahmed University.
According to CITAD’s research, fewer than ten percent of universities in the region currently offer courses related to blockchain or financial technology. Ya’u remarked, “Lagos is already gaining recognition as Africa’s innovation hub, while Northern Nigeria is still catching up. Through this program, we are bringing innovation directly to universities, helping them integrate these technologies into their curricula and strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem.”
Ali Sabo further explained that blockchain goes beyond financial transactions; institutions can use it to manage student records, monitor academic progress, and improve examination integrity. A facilitator and data analyst, Yusuf Babagana, pointed out that misconceptions about cryptocurrency have hindered awareness of blockchain among academics. “Some lecturers still view cryptocurrency as a scam, which stifles innovation. This workshop aims to dispel those myths and demonstrate how blockchain and fintech can drive societal development,” he said.
The college provost, Bashir Sabo Abubakar, declared the workshop open and lauded its importance in preparing lecturers for a technology-driven future. He described the event as more than just a training session—it is a strategic effort to build staff capacity and show how technology can transform teaching, research, and institutional administration.
Speaking on behalf of participants, Ali Abubakar Ali, president of the College of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) FCE (T) Bichi chapter, commended CITAD for organizing the program, calling it timely and impactful. Several participants urged higher institutions across Northern Nigeria to prioritize digital innovation training to ensure that lecturers and students remain globally competitive in the evolving knowledge economy.