In what is being hailed as a significant academic and technological achievement, the Kwara State University (KWASU) research team, spearheaded by Dr. Olayinka Yusuf, a renowned specialist in Agricultural Technology Transfer, Gender, and Rural Development, has successfully clinched the much-coveted Gender and Responsible Artificial Intelligence Network (GRAIN) grant.
Titled “Improving Inclusion and gender equality through Artificial Intelligence in sub-Saharan Africa,” this grant is valued at a commendable $15,108.
The project, christened “Artificial Intelligence for Climate Smart Farming: A Path Towards Economic Empowerment of Women Farmers,” is not merely an academic exercise.
It stands as a beacon of innovation and empowerment, one of the mere nine initiatives that were handpicked from an overwhelming fifty proposals presented to GRAIN.
The GRAIN, in its essence, is a pioneering platform, fostering cutting-edge research centered on the synthesis of artificial intelligence for promoting gender equality and inclusion.
This coalition is powered by the collaborative might of globally recognized research entities such as IPAR, CSEA, and Sunbird AI.
The momentum for such progressive initiatives is further amplified by the robust funding facilitated by the IAPD Africa program, generously sponsored by esteemed bodies like the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and Sida.
Complementing the leadership of Dr. Olayinka Yusuf, the team boasts of intellectual powerhouses, including Dr. Khadijat Olanrewaju, Mrs. Martha Alade, Dr. Kazeem Dauda, Dr. Ronke Babatunde, Mrs. Kemi Afolabi-Yusuf, Dr. Latifat Olatinwo, Dr. Ololade Abdulrahman, and Dr. Abdulrahman Ibrahim.
Each member brings to the table their distinctive expertise, shaping a multi-dimensional approach to this research.
Reacting to this phenomenal success, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University, Malete, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Jimoh, radiated immense pride and optimism.
He highlighted the transformative potential of this grant, particularly in augmenting the capabilities and resources of female farmers in Nigeria.
Given the looming shadows of food security concerns, Professor Jimoh stressed the urgency of ensuring consistent access to nutritious food.
By focusing on women farmers, the project is strategically targeting a demographic that is pivotal in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
By fortifying their position, Nigeria takes a decisive step toward ensuring sustenance for its vulnerable populations.
In his concluding remarks, Professor Jimoh fervently commended the team’s dedication and vision, hoping that such triumphs pave the way for more accolades for KWASU.