The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to knowledge-driven development with the commissioning of the remodelled Centre for Digital Humanities Learning Hub/Work Station and the Executive Postgraduate Lecture Room at the University of Lagos. Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations Gbenga Oyerinde, described the facilities as a strategic investment in Nigeria's future scholarship and knowledge production.
Hamzat emphasized that technology must serve humanity, and the Centre for Digital Humanities holds huge potential to expand research opportunities, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and make Nigeria's cultural and intellectual heritage more accessible globally. He noted that digital technologies are transforming various fields, including history, literature, and social experiences, and integrating digital tools with humanities can expand research and make heritage accessible.
The Deputy Governor stressed that postgraduate education is critical for developing advanced skills and preparing leaders for government, business, and industry. He commended the University of Lagos management, led by Vice-Chancellor Folasade Ogunsola, and urged the university to ensure proper maintenance, efficient management, and sustained partnerships with government, private sector, and international institutions.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Matthew Olusoji Ilori said humanities remain indispensable even in a tech-driven world. He noted that spatial intelligence, big data, digital archives, and virtual reality are changing how we learn and preserve heritage, and understanding human experience, values, culture, and language is crucial.
The German Consulate, represented by Deputy Consul General, congratulated UNILAG for being a pacesetter in digital humanities, having founded sub-Saharan Africa's first dedicated Centre for Digital Humanities in 2019. The Consulate acknowledged the support of various foundations, including the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and German Research Foundation.
Founding Director Tunde Ope-Davies said the commissioning is not just about unveiling new facilities but providing a physical and intellectual home for African ideas. He disclosed that UNILAG inspired the National Universities Commission's new curriculum making Digital Humanities compulsory in all Nigerian universities since 2022.
The Centre for Digital Humanities has secured Senate approval to run PGD, MA, and PhD programmes in Digital Humanities, and graduates are expected to produce patentable digital products. Ope-Davies emphasized the importance of using Artificial Intelligence ethically and responsibly.
Key points
- The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to knowledge-driven development with the commissioning of the Centre for Digital Humanities at the University of Lagos.
- The Centre for Digital Humanities has the potential to expand research opportunities, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and make Nigeria's cultural and intellectual heritage more accessible globally.
- The University of Lagos has secured Senate approval to run PGD, MA, and PhD programmes in Digital Humanities, with graduates expected to produce patentable digital products.
