The foundation for the proposed Curator University, Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence-focused institution, has been laid in Modakeke, Osun State.

The university proposes to offer courses in Artificial Intelligence (Machine Learning Specialisation), Computer Hardware Engineering, Data Analytics and Database Administration, Arbitration and Conflict Resolution, as well as 3D Printing and Polymer Science.

Laying the foundation on Friday, Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dipo Eluwole, said the establishment of the institution was in alignment with the state government’s drive to strengthen the education sector.

“The establishment of a university here in Modakeke is a milestone achievement, which aligns with our vision to boost the educational sector,” he said.

He congratulated the promoters of the university, charging them “to ensure that this proposed university becomes one of the best in Nigeria, both academically and culturally”.

Also speaking at the event, Founder of Curator University, Olusola Amusan, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing tertiary education and national development.

“We expect that there are structures we can build through public-private partnerships. For the university, there are education endowment funds, federal government funds, and loan facilities. We believe that cutting-edge education comes at a cost, sometimes a premium. Our goal is to support the community and all our students through partnerships, whether private or government, to ensure they can access the education we are offering here,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Chairman of the Curator University Groundbreaking Planning Committee, Abimbola Amusan, expressed optimism that the project would transform the area into a global hub for academics and innovation.

“We envision this land transforming into a global academic and innovation hub that will empower youth, create jobs, and spark economic growth for generations to come,” he said.

On his part, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Olubiyi, called on indigenes of the town in the diaspora to emulate the initiative of the founder by giving back to their community.