The Nigerian Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, recently announced the government’s plan to provide 5 million Naira (~$6,444) to support 45 startups and researchers specializing in artificial intelligence (AI).
To support the mainstreaming of the application of Artificial Intelligence for economic prosperity, we’ve launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme to fund 45 consortia of startups and researchers to allow them explore further opportunities to deepen their… pic.twitter.com/CaD5Vqs8Du
— Dr. 'Bosun Tijani (@bosuntijani) October 13, 2023
According to Tijani, this initiative is part of the recently introduced Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, which is designed to facilitate the widespread utilization of AI to drive economic advancement.
The scheme’s focus areas include agriculture, education and workforce, finance, governance, healthcare, utility and sustainability.
To qualify for a grant, prospective applicants are required to:
- Establish a consortium that includes a startup or technology company along with a researcher affiliated with a Nigerian university or a foreign researcher, as specified by the ministry.
- Those applying for the grant should submit a research proposal that aligns with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s AI focus areas. Additionally, they are expected to present a detailed proposal outlining the project’s potential economic impact in Nigeria.
- Candidates are required to have a demonstrated track record of excellence in either research or entrepreneurship. Moreover, they are anticipated to publish a minimum of one peer-reviewed article within one year of being awarded the grant.
In August 2023, the Nigerian government reportedly extended an invitation to scientists of Nigerian heritage, as well as globally renowned experts with prior experience in the Nigerian market, to collaborate in shaping the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
The application window for this initiative began on October 13, 2023, and closes on November 15, 2023. Applications must be submitted through the designated online portal hosted by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
The ministry has stated that a panel of AI specialists will be responsible for evaluating the proposals.
Shortlisted applicants will be notified via email and then invited for an interview with the panel. Final selection and announcement of grant recipients will be made based on the evaluations and recommendations of the panel.
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