By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, says the institution is committed to strengthening its distance learning programme through digital technologies to expand access to quality education, especially for underserved and vulnerable groups.

He stated this on Monday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Smart Education between ABU and DazzleView Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd of Guangzhou, China.

Prof. Ahmed described the partnership as a strategic move to deepen collaboration in educational technology, research, capacity building, and industry engagement.

He said partnerships between universities and technology firms are increasingly important in addressing major educational challenges in developing countries, particularly the rising number of out-of-school children.

“Collaborating with technology companies can help address one of the most pressing educational challenges facing many developing countries — the problem of out-of-school children. This is where partnerships can make a transformative difference,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor explained that the MoU would serve as a foundation for enhanced cooperation aimed at promoting innovation and improving educational delivery through smart technologies.

“Together, we can connect knowledge with practical application, transform ideas into solutions, and ensure that technology serves as a powerful tool for inclusion and development,” he added.

He expressed appreciation to DazzleView Intelligent Technology for its continued support to the university, recalling its donation of a smart classroom facility in 2022, which he said has improved teaching and learning at ABU.

Prof. Ahmed reiterated the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation, noting that ABU is also focusing on entrepreneurship and the commercialisation of research outputs.

He said this would help translate academic discoveries into practical products and services that can drive economic growth and national development.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism that the partnership would strengthen knowledge exchange, technological advancement, and sustainable educational development, while reinforcing ABU’s position as a leading academic institution in Africa.