Prof. Adamu Ahmed, the Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has urged libraries nationwide to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart technologies to promote inclusive access to knowledge, particularly among underserved communities.
Ahmed made the call during the 5th International Conference of Kashim Ibrahim Library Wednesday in Zaria, Kaduna State,
The event had its theme as: “Reimagining Library and Information Ecosystem for Inclusive Development: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence, Smart Technologies and Sustainable Knowledge.”
Ahmed, represented by Prof. Sanusi Rafin-Dadi, Deputy Vice-chancellor (Advancement, Research and Innovation) said emerging technologies were transforming knowledge creation, access, storage and application, alongside teaching, learning and research.
He said libraries should evolve beyond traditional repositories of information into dynamic centres of knowledge creation, digital innovation, research support and intellectual engagement to remain relevant in the changing technological environment.
According to him, universities must strengthen information infrastructure, invest in human capacity and establish institutional frameworks to ensure responsible and effective deployment of emerging technologies in academic activities.
Ahmed urged participants to move beyond discussions on technological possibilities and develop practical ideas, institutional partnerships and sustainable approaches capable of strengthening library services and information systems.
Earlier, the Acting University Librarian, Dr Abubakar Mohammed, represented by former University Librarian, Abdulhamid Liman, said technology alone could not guarantee inclusive development without deliberate efforts.
He said libraries should ensure that AI and smart technologies benefited rural readers, persons with disabilities, students without laptops and communities whose indigenous knowledge remained undocumented or inaccessible.
Abdullahi said the conference would provide opportunities to examine responsible AI deployment, protection of privacy and intellectual freedom, preservation of indigenous knowledge and strategies for preventing digital exclusion.
He appreciated the university management for supporting the library, citing the renovation of leaking roofs and toilets, planned installation of solar facilities and ongoing landscaping around the complex.
The chairman of the occasion, Prof. Zakari Mohammed, expressed optimism that the conference would promote wider understanding and adoption of artificial intelligence among library professionals and other stakeholders.
Mohammed said the Department of Library and Information Science had been producing higher-level graduates with knowledge of AI for the past five years.
He expressed hope that the conference would further popularise the technology among participants and encourage its application towards improving the university and addressing wider societal challenges.
