Ekiti Trains 5,000 in AI, Establishes Startup Garage, Targets Digital Healthcare

The Ekiti State Government has expanded the use of technology across education, healthcare and business, with 5,000 students and youths trained in artificial intelligence and digital learning, while initiatives are being developed to support startups and improve healthcare delivery.

Ayodele Ayo-Akande, Technical Assistant, Governance and Digital Communication, Ekiti State, disclosed this while highlighting how technology is changing the lives of residents across the state.

Ayo-Akande said the state was strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics education through practical learning programmes involving coding, robotics, artificial intelligence and science competitions.

He said the Ministry of Education had trained 3,000 tertiary students and 2,000 out-of-school youths on the Nigeria Learning Passport and artificial intelligence.

According to him, the training is designed to help young people develop problem-solving, creativity and technological skills that can be applied to further education and employment.

In the healthcare sector, Ayo-Akande said technology was being explored to improve health information management, patient records, communication and access to specialised medical services.

He disclosed that the Ministry of Innovation had long-term plans to introduce telemedicine and electronic health records, noting that the initiatives would complement the work of healthcare professionals and improve service delivery.

On business development, Ayo-Akande said technology was creating opportunities for entrepreneurs in software development, digital marketing, fintech, creative services and e-commerce.

He said the Ekiti Start-Up Garage was providing a platform for young innovators to develop their ideas, while the state’s Founder’s Bootcamp was offering mentorship and connecting growing founders with resources and investment opportunities.