The Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management (KSITM) will host its maiden International Conference on the Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Science, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) Education.
The Chairman of the Governing Council of the institute, Dr. Muttaqa Rabe Darma, announced this at a press conference held at the institute in Katsina.
He explained that the event, scheduled to take place in April 2025, will be organised in partnership with the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communications Technology (KATDICT) and Alqalam University, Katsina.
Dr Muttaqa Rabe further stated that, moving forward, the institute will host at least two international conferences every academic session as part of its drive to make KSITM a centre for global academic discourse.
Additionally, Dr Muttaqa Rabe disclosed that the council has approved the establishment of a Directorate of Skills Development and Community Services at the institute. This initiative aims to equip each student with life skills that will enable them to become productive and self-employed.
“The aim of establishing the institute is to ensure that every student of KSITM graduates with at least four skills, comprising both technical and soft skills,” he said. “Students will also participate in community service initiatives in line with our goal of producing graduates who excel in both knowledge and character.”
“In this regard, the institute will partner with relevant state and federal government organisations focused on skills development,” he added.
On the matter of fostering financial sustainability, the Governing Council Chairman shared that a committee, headed by Prof. Muktar EI-Kasim, has been constituted to explore partnerships and collaborations with relevant organisations.
“This initiative,” he said, “will support the institute’s strategic projects and ensure sustainable financial growth to enable the institute to stand on its feet.”
Additionally, the council has promoted 17 academic staff and 16 non-academic staff, and confirmed the appointments of eight non-teaching staff members to promote efficiency.
Meanwhile, with the expiration of the tenure of the institute’s Rector by December 12, 2024, the Deputy Rector, Dr. Hindatu Salisu Abubakar, will serve as Acting Rector pending the appointment of a substantive Rector.
“The position of Bursar remains vacant, and advertisements for these positions will be published in accordance with the requirements of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and concluded by December 20, 2024,” he said.
Tribune correspondent in Katsina recalled that the institute was set up by Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema with the intent to create an ICT hub of excellence in Nigeria. The institute has, at present, attracted students from across northern Nigeria.
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