By Ibrahim Suleiman
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has urged libraries to embrace artificial intelligence and smart technologies to promote inclusive access to knowledge, particularly among underserved communities.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, made the call during the 5th International Conference of Kashim Ibrahim Library, held at the University premises in Zaria .
Ahmed, represented by Prof. Sanusi Rafin-Dadi, DVC Advancement, Research and Innovation said emerging technologies were transforming knowledge creation, access, storage and application, alongside teaching, learning and research across universities and other academic institutions.
He said libraries must evolve beyond traditional repositories of information into dynamic centres of knowledge creation, digital innovation, research support and intellectual engagement to remain relevant in the changing technological environment.
Earlier, the Acting University Librarian, Dr. Abubakar Mohammed, represented by former University Librarian, Abdullahi Liman, said technology alone could not guarantee inclusive development without deliberate efforts.
He said libraries must ensure that artificial intelligence and smart technologies benefited rural readers, persons with disabilities, students without laptops and communities whose indigenous knowledge remained undocumented or inaccessible.
Abdullahi said the conference would provide opportunities to examine responsible AI deployment, protection of privacy and intellectual freedom, preservation of indigenous knowledge and strategies for preventing digital exclusion.
He appreciated the university management for supporting the library, citing the renovation of leaking roofs and toilets, planned installation of solar facilities and ongoing landscaping around the complex.
The chairman of the occasion, Prof. Zakari Mohammed, expressed optimism that the conference would promote wider understanding and adoption of artificial intelligence among library professionals and other stakeholders.
Mohammed said the Department of Library and Information Science had been producing higher-level graduates with knowledge of artificial intelligence for the past five years.
He expressed hope that the conference would further popularise the technology among participants and encourage its application towards improving the university and addressing wider societal challenges.
Radio Nigeria reports that the three-day conference brought together scholars, policymakers and library professionals to explore sustainable approaches to transforming library and information services.
The theme of the Conference “Reimagining Library and Information Ecosystem for Inclusive Development: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence, Smart Technologies and Sustainable Knowledge”
Editing : Hauwa Muhammad Lawal
