By Jelilah Bilal

Fifty young women from the University of Ibadan are set to receive hands-on training in artificial intelligence following the launch of TechHER25, a new initiative by Techlytics Institute of Technology and Innovation in partnership with IHS Nigeria.

The eight-week programme, which commenced on May 7, 2026, at the University’s Faculty of Computing, is designed to equip participants with practical skills to build and deploy AI systems addressing real-world challenges in Nigeria.

The initiative focuses on training participants to develop solutions in areas such as security, transportation, environmental management, and energy efficiency, with an emphasis on practical deployment rather than theoretical learning.

The Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, Titilope Oguntuga, said: “We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower local talent and create opportunities for inclusive participation in the digital economy.”

Founder and CEO of Techlytics, Oluwatayo Winkunle, said the programme is aimed at expanding participation in Nigeria’s growing technology ecosystem. “Nigeria cannot build its AI future by leaving half of its talent behind. This programme is about capability—ensuring these women leave with the skills to build systems that matter.”

She added that the programme is part of a broader effort to ensure that AI solutions relevant to Nigeria are developed locally.

Participants will present their projects at the end of the programme in July 2026, showcasing solutions with potential applications across both public and private sectors.