The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has partnered with OpenAI, creators of ChatGPT, to establish the first OpenAI Academy in Africa, a landmark initiative aimed at equipping students, researchers, and innovators with cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) skills tailored to African realities.
The partnership was officially announced on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of UNILAG’s 5th International Week, themed “Equitable Partnerships and the Future of AI in Africa,” held at the J. F. Ade. Ajayi Auditorium, Akoka.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, described the collaboration as a major leap in advancing equitable technology exchange and preparing young Africans for the future of work.
“Artificial Intelligence is not the future; it is the present. For Africa, AI offers a chance to leapfrog systemic challenges and create solutions that fit our context. This partnership with OpenAI is not just about learning technology; it’s about shaping it to serve our people,” Ogunsola said.
She emphasised that Africa must become an active contributor to the global AI ecosystem rather than a passive consumer of imported systems.
“We cannot continue to depend solely on tools developed for other realities. Our students are already developing AI models for health diagnostics in low-connectivity areas and maternal care tools for rural clinics, innovations the world should learn from,” she added.
Ogunsola noted that UNILAG has attracted over $28 million in international research funding and continues to foster partnerships built on mutual growth and shared ownership of innovation.
OpenAI’s Africa Lead, Mr. Emmanuel Lubanzadio, said the academy will train students, educators, and innovators to use and build with AI tools such as ChatGPT, with applications spanning education, governance, and the creative economy.
“We’re here to democratise access to intelligence. The OpenAI Academy is designed to equip Africans with practical, hands-on experience using AI tools that can transform classrooms, start-ups, and communities,” he said.
He added that hosting the first academy at UNILAG reflects the university’s reputation as a leader in innovation and digital learning.
“This academy will not only empower students here but serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives across Africa,” Lubanzadio said.
Also speaking, Yvonne Ike, Managing Director and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at Bank of America, urged African universities to accelerate digital preparedness.
“Our challenge is how fast we can equip students for the realities of a world driven by AI. We must design partnerships that serve Africa’s priorities and define our own digital destiny,” she said.
A panel discussion titled “AI and the Future of African Cities” featured experts including Prof. Diana Mitlin (University of Manchester), Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Future Africa), Prof. Matthew Guah (South Carolina State University), and UNILAG undergraduate Eniola Adeleke. The session explored how AI can tackle urban challenges, governance, and inclusion across Africa.
The UNILAG International Week, coordinated by Prof. Ismail Ibraheem, Director of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects, continues through Thursday with workshops, exhibitions, and training sessions under the OpenAI Academy, focusing on AI in education, journalism, public service, and the creative industries.
