In a groundbreaking collaboration, kakalistiq.com reports that over one hundred graduates of Tech Talent and Data Science training at the SAIL Innovation Lab have secured jobs with Awari AI, a leading AI/robotics firm shaping the tech landscape in Nigeria. The partnership was officially launched at the SAIL Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, heralding a new era of technological progress in Lagos East Senatorial District.
Dignitaries present at the launch included former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, and HRM Oba Engr. Kabir Adewale Shotobi, among others. The event marked a milestone in the intersection of technology, innovation, and job creation in the district.
The co-founder of the SAIL Innovation Lab and Senator representing Lagos East, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, expressed excitement about the transformative journey initiated by the collaboration. He emphasized the potential of the 4th Industrial Revolution, driven by AI and other cutting-edge technologies, to redefine industries, create jobs, and empower the youth.
Since its inception in 2022, the SAIL Innovation Lab, under Senator Abiru’s leadership, has positively impacted over 4,173 participants through various programs, including Tech Talent Development, STEM initiatives, and Data Science for Society. Awari AI, as a key partner, has employed nearly 100 graduates, marking a significant step toward bridging the digital divide and providing job opportunities.
“Today, the SAIL Innovation Lab has left an indelible mark on the lives of over 4,173 participants through a diverse array of programs, including Tech Talent Development, STEM initiatives tailored for senior secondary students, Lagos East Teachers Fellowship, Start-Up Accelerator, and Data Science for Society.
“These programs have now evolved to offer job prospects through our esteemed partner organizations. Awarri AI has taken the lead by employing nearly 100 of our graduates and pledging to continue its role as a platform for future outstanding participants seeking employment.
“In an era where digital skills have become an essential currency, the SAIL Innovation Lab serves as a bridge, closing the digital divide. Our vision is to provide free training to young individuals in high-demand tech skills and work collaboratively with our partners to secure them decent job placements”, Senator Abiru retorted.
The co-founders of Awari AI, Mr. Silas Adekunle and Ms. Eniola Edun, highlighted the importance of embracing artificial intelligence in Nigeria’s digital age. The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, commended the SAIL Innovation Lab’s achievements in less than seven months and stressed the historic significance of Awari AI’s commitment to building local expertise in AI.
“We set out to open up the minds of young people to opportunities that are available globally, and these opportunities are no longer the preserve of the developed world. We live in a time when technology now connects each and every one of us strongly. The technologies have given us the opportunities to overcome barriers and be part of the global economy.
“Nigerians have not been able to participate fully and harness its benefits. For the first time in the history of Nigeria and anywhere in Nigeria, Awari AI has decided to start a company that will focus on building that knowledge so that computers will also think like us. For the first time in Nigeria, hundreds of people are being hired from the SAIL Innovation Lab”, the minister averred.
Hon. Tunbosun Alake, the Commissioner for Science, Innovation, and Technology, announced the state government’s partnership in the project, emphasizing the government’s support for initiatives driving technological advancement.
