New institute at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike will advance digital-first education, applied research and workforce development in artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, digital governance, entrepreneurship and agritech in partnership with the African Skills and Innovation Network.
ABAKALIKI, Nigeria – Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike has launched the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation, a new interdisciplinary academic and innovation hub designed to prepare students and professionals for emerging sectors of the digital economy. The institute is being developed in partnership with the African Skills and Innovation Network and reflects AE-FUNAI’s digital transformation priority. It will focus on high-impact areas including artificial intelligence, data science, financial technology, cybersecurity, digital governance, entrepreneurship and agritech.
The institute will operate through a digital-first learning model supported by an advanced learning management system and global faculty collaboration. According to the university’s announcement, students will engage with instructors, researchers and industry experts from across Nigeria and around the world. Initial undergraduate programmes listed by the university include Artificial Intelligence and Applied Data Science, Financial Technology and Digital Banking, Applied Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, Digital Business and Innovation, Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Technology, Digital Product Design and Emerging Technologies, and Smart Agriculture, Agritech and Rural Innovation.
AE-FUNAI said the institute will also operate through six interdisciplinary academic pathways: Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems, Digital Economy and FinTech, Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Leadership, Digital Governance and Cyber Systems, Human-Centered Digital Technology, and Sustainable Systems, Agritech and Rural Innovation. Beyond degree programmes, the institute is expected to offer professional certificate programmes, executive education, apprenticeships and corporate training to support workforce development across industries.
Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, said the institute reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for the realities of the modern global economy. Professor Chinedu Ekuma, Executive Director of IFSI, said the institute is designed to expand access to future-focused education while connecting learning to real-world impact. For programme information, partnership opportunities and institute updates, visit ifsi.funai.edu.ng. AE-FUNAI invites prospective students, educators, researchers, industry leaders and development partners to explore the website and engage with the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation as it expands its academic, professional and innovation-driven offerings.
Media Contact
Institute for Future Skills and Innovation
Office of the Vice Chancellor
AE-FUNAI, Ebonyi, Nigeria
ifsi@funai.edu.ng
