Empowering Students with Data Science Knowledge and Skills: DSN Collaborative Effort with Olabisi Onabanjo University.
In a groundbreaking initiative, a partnership was forged between Data Science Nigeria (DSN) and Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) to equip its students with essential skills in data science and analytics through an innovative out-of-classroom approach.
Spearheaded by Dr. Sakinat Folorunsho alongside esteemed colleagues such as Dr. Oluwakemi and Dr. Sofoluwe, this collaborative endeavor aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Commencing on February 9th and culminating on March 23rd, the comprehensive training program spanned seven weeks, immersing participants in the intricacies of data literacy, analytical techniques utilizing tools like Excel and Microsoft Power BI, and the fundamentals of machine learning with Python. The training sessions were strategically conducted across three campuses: Ago-Iwoye campus, Ibogun campus, and Sagamu campus, ensuring widespread accessibility to interested students.
Over 200 students, representing diverse academic disciplines including engineering, accountancy, religious studies, computer science, medicine, and surgery, enthusiastically participated in the program. Recognizing the importance of contextual relevance, the curriculum was meticulously crafted to incorporate real-world case studies tailored to resonate with the domain knowledge of the students.
One of the initiative’s highlights was the active involvement of faculty members and senate participants, fostering collaboration and mentorship. This engagement not only enriched the learning experience but also provided invaluable networking opportunities for the students.
The training resulted in a series of rigorous evaluations, including practical projects utilizing Microsoft Excel and Power BI, and a stimulating Machine Learning hackathon hosted on the Zindi platform. These assessments not only gauged the students’ comprehension and proficiency but also provided a platform for them to showcase their problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios.
Looking ahead, the program’s success is slated to be commemorated with a closing ceremony scheduled for May 8th, 2024. This event will serve as a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of all involved parties, celebrating the empowerment of students with the transformative capabilities of data science and analytics.
Through this pioneering partnership, OOU students have not only gained invaluable skills but have also been inspired to harness the power of data to drive innovation and effect positive change in their respective fields. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, initiatives like these serve as beacons of progress, championing the integration of cutting-edge technologies into traditional learning paradigms for the benefit of future generations.
In conclusion, Data Science Nigeria’s mission transcends boundaries, aiming to empower not just individuals but the entire nation. With a mandate to cultivate one million AI talents in Nigeria and pioneer artificial intelligence solutions for two billion people in emerging markets, initiatives like the one at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) represent pivotal steps toward achieving these ambitious goals. By nurturing students’ skills in data science at OOU and similar institutions nationwide, Data Science Nigeria is not only shaping the future workforce but also catalyzing innovation and socioeconomic development on a global scale.
