The Ogun State-owned institution, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, on Thursday unveiled a 10Gbps smart fibre infrastructure as part of efforts to enhance digital learning, research and innovation.
The Rector of the institution, Architect Dr Babatunde Jolaoso, described the infrastructure as a landmark achievement in innovation, technological advancement and technical education.
He explained that adequate safeguards had been integrated into the system to prevent misuse.
Jolaoso said, “This facility places us more prominently on the global stage than ever before. Its impact will extend beyond the institution to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
“All these facilities are built in to check the antics of negative users. The objective is to ensure that the facility remains a platform for development and progress.”
The Director of the institution’s Advanced Technological Innovation and Research Centre, Mr Balogun Khalil, explained that the 10Gbps internet infrastructure would support artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, research, incubation and digital learning.
He noted that Nigeria’s technical education sector faced infrastructure deficits despite the country’s abundance of talent.
Khalil added that fibre last-mile connectivity had been extended to MAPOLY classrooms to provide reliable, high-speed internet access.
The Olowu of Owu, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola, who chaired the occasion, commended the MAPOLY management, describing the project as a strategic investment in technology-driven education.
Matemilola said the infrastructure would provide students with practical technological experience and opportunities to develop innovative solutions to societal challenges.
The traditional ruler explained that the infrastructure would strengthen research by providing the digital backbone required for world-class academic work.
Oba Matemilola said: “It will strengthen research by providing the digital backbone required for world-class academic work.
“Inadequate digital infrastructure has limited many Nigerian tertiary institutions in research, innovation and global competitiveness.
“I believe that the smart campus project will bridge the gap through high-speed connectivity, technology transfer and stronger academia–industry collaboration.”
Matemilola urged stakeholders to ensure the proper maintenance and effective utilisation of the facility to maximise its benefits.
The Senator representing Ogun Central, Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, also described the project as a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive towards technology-enabled education.
The lawmaker, who is an information and communications technology expert, said MAPOLY had evolved into a globally recognised institution for technological, scientific and entrepreneurial education.
The senator disclosed that he had sponsored more than 2,000 youths to receive training in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital content creation, while also providing beneficiaries with laptops.
“While its full impact may not be immediate, it will deliver long-term benefits for future generations and national development,” Salisu said.
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