By Bashir Dawodu
The Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS), University of Ilorin, Dr Amos Bajeh, has called on students to leverage technology as a tool for addressing societal issues.
Dr Bajeh gave the advice last Tuesday (May 13, 2025), while speaking at the maiden edition of the NACOSS TechFest 1.0, themed “Tech for Good: Creating Solutions for a Better World”, organised by the Nigeria Association of Computer Science Students (NACOSS), UNILORIN Chapter, in collaboration with the National Association of Computer Science Students (NACOS).
The Sub-Dean emphasised the need for technology to be used for social good, particularly in solving grassroots problems.
According to Dr Bajeh, the relevance of technology is defined by its ability to address real world challenges, citing innovations such as mMitra, EDVES, Kuda, and the use of Artificial Intelligence in agriculture in India as examples of tech solutions that have transformed lives.
He also urged students to remain committed to their academic pursuits, warning against the temptation to drop out in pursuit of tech ventures.
Noting that “many successful technologists are university graduates”, Dr Bajeh said that “technology brings productivity and other benefits, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring ethical usage.” He pointed out that “without that, tech can drive society into chaos.”
Also speaking at the event, the Co-founder and Managing Director of KUDA Microfinance Bank, Mr Musty Mustapha, encouraged students to view technology as a life changing force.
Mr Mustapha, who is an alumnus of the University of Ilorin, advised students to take bold steps towards launching their own tech businesses, stressing the importance of integrity and excellence.
In her remarks, Miss Iroh Omolola Nkechi, founder of Frontend Developer.Fez Dalvary, advised students to focus on solving real world problems rather than chasing money. “When you create value, money will follow,” she said. She also encouraged collaboration with NGOs and impact driven initiatives.
Mr Ozenua Tobiloba, who is a product designer, highlighted the benefits of artificial intelligence in tech development, assuring students that AI should be seen as an aid, not a threat. “What used to take a month can now be done in one or two weeks with AI,” he said, urging students to embrace and learn the technology.
The event also featured awards presentations and interactive game sessions.
Among the dignitaries that attended the event were the Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, Prof. Lukman Adesina Azeez, and some other Faculty members.