NBTE to host international conference on decentralized AI system for Polytechnics
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has announced plans to host an international conference and seminar on a new decentralized Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) system developed for Nigerian polytechnics. The event is scheduled to be held from November 25–27, 2025, at the NBTE Liaison Office in Abuja. The initiative introduces a Linux‑based […]
National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has announced plans to host an international conference and seminar on a new decentralized Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) system developed for Nigerian polytechnics.
The event is scheduled to be held from November 25–27, 2025, at the NBTE Liaison Office in Abuja.
The initiative introduces a Linux‑based platform designed to help polytechnics, especially those grappling with limited internet access and high data costs, gain full offline access to modern AI and Machine Learning tools.
According to the Executive Secretary of NBTE, the project represents “a practical and forward‑looking effort to bridge connectivity gaps and democratize access to AI resources across the country.”
He stressed that “students must not be denied the opportunity to learn and innovate simply because of unreliable external internet connectivity.”
During the conference, NBTE will unveil 46 custom‑built Machine Learning and AI models created through collaboration involving lecturers from Kombolcha Polytechnic in Ethiopia, Nigerian institutions, and MOC‑LLC in the United States. The models will be shared as Linux‑based ISO files that institutions can install for applied research, classroom teaching, and hands‑on simulations.
To address challenges posed by poor or expensive internet services, NBTE explained that the system will provide campus‑wide access to all required tools, including simulators and research libraries, without depending on external connectivity.
Institutions will run the platform on Linux using Apache2, enabling AI models and learning materials to be streamed across laboratories, classrooms, and research units.
NBTE emphasized that the initiative is part of its broader plan to strengthen national capacity in applied engineering, AI, data‑driven innovation, and industrial technology.
It said decentralized AI laboratories would position polytechnics as vital contributors to agriculture, security, engineering, manufacturing, and industrial development.
As part of the conference, NBTE will also sign an implementation agreement with MOC‑LLC USA to establish an intranet‑based AI and Machine Learning Research Library Hub at its Abuja office. The hub, to be built and funded by MOC‑LLC, will host post‑conference models, system updates, and resources.
The Executive Secretary urged polytechnic rectors to seize the opportunity by working closely with lecturers to operationalize the laboratories.
He noted that the system will “elevate teaching standards, expand applied research capabilities, and strengthen Nigeria’s technical workforce,” while promoting interdisciplinary learning in Machine Learning, AI, applied statistics, and advanced linear algebra.