The Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano, has sought the support of the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, in developing virtual learning platforms and Information Technology infrastructure in the varsity.
The acting Vice-Chancellor of the varsity, Prof. Aliyu Musa, made this known during a courtesy visit to the NITDA headquarters in Abuja.
Responding, the NITDA DG, Kashifu Inuwa, who received the delegation in his office noted that the agency was committed to supporting institutions.
According to him, the commitment would ensure that best ideas and innovations at the tertiary level were promoted to address national issues.
While calling for the support of tertiary institutions on continuous support toward developing the ICT sector, Mr Inuwa said that universities were critical stakeholders toward achieving digital economy.
According to him, universities produce the human capital and greatest resources needed in achieving a developed country in terms of technology, innovations and entrepreneurship.
“There is a need for close collaboration between higher institutions, industry and government to enable a smooth flow of information on what is required, as well as training students accordingly.
“The Federal Government through NITDA drives a knowledge-based economy and we need your support to develop the sector.
“The higher institutions are the primary places for anybody coming to the work place as they have to pass through you to get all the knowledge to be in the workplace,” he said.
Mr Inuwa noted that the collaboration between the industry and institutions was highly needed, especially in the COVID-19 pandemic era, which prompted many nations to build capacity internally.
