Experts have said the infusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Chemistry has opened new frontiers in reducing waste and energy consumption.

According to them, AI-driven chemistry has also optimised chemical processes and improved the development of more sustainable technologies and solutions.

Speaking in Abuja yesterday during the 10th yearly symposium of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter, Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, explained the integration of AI with chemistry had revolutionised the field.

He noted that it had enabled scientists to design more efficient experiments, predict outcomes, and discover new compounds, thereby accelerating innovation and sustainability in chemical sciences.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, the VC stressed that the theme, ‘Advancing sustainability through AI-driven chemistry’, underscored the pivotal role chemistry plays in tackling pressing global sustainability issues.

He highlighted that the theme demonstrates the immense potential of AI in catalysing groundbreaking innovations and providing cutting-edge solutions within the chemistry field, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.

His words: “The theme of this year’s symposium, ‘Advancing Sustainability through Al-Driven Chemistry’, could not be more timely or relevant. As the world grapples with complex global challenges of food insecurity, banditry, climate change, environmental degradation, and dwindling natural resources – the role of chemistry as a foundational science has never been more critical, yet it is the infusion of Artificial Intelligence – with its power to model, predict, and optimise – that now opens new frontiers in reducing waste and energy consumption; optimise chemical processes and improve the development of more sustainable technologies and solutions.

“At NOUN, we are deeply committed to the ideas of accessible, technology-enhanced education and cutting-edge research that addresses national development and global goals.”

In his keynote lecture, Regius Chair of Chemistry, Centre for Digital Chemistry, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom, Prof. Leroy (Lee) Cronin, underscored the transformative potential of digital chemistry and AI in revolutionising the field.

This, he explained, has enabled the discovery of new materials, optimising chemical reactions, and driving sustainable innovation.

In his address, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, stressed the importance of scientific research and innovation in driving economic growth and development.

He highlighted the President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote technological advancement and sustainability.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Chair, ACS Nigeria Chemical Sciences Chapter, Prof. Edu Inam, said this year’s event aims to create a platform where experts in both AI and chemistry can converge to share ideas and foster collaborations that drive sustainability.

Also, the President of ACS, Dr. Dorothy Philips, lauded ACS Nigeria Chapter for sustaining the tradition of excellence over the past decades.

IN a related development, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is to leverage technology to revolutionise the delivery of basic education nationwide.

Its Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, dropped the hint yesterday in Abuja during a media briefing ahead of the 2025 International Conference on Smart Education and Digital Literacy (ICSE 2025), jointly organised by the commission and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The three-day conference, to be held from May 6-9 in Abuja, has ‘Empowering African Smart Education Through Emerging Technologies’ as its theme.

According to Garba, the event is aimed at repositioning Nigeria to align with some other African nations in integrating technology into education.

KOICA Country Director, Kim Eunsub, emphasised South Korea’s support for Nigeria’s smart education journey through the KOICA Smart School Initiative.