NBTE Introduces Decentralised AI and Machine Learning System for Nigerian Polytechnics

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has unveiled plans to introduce a decentralised artificial intelligence and machine learning system designed to revolutionise teaching and research across Nigerian polytechnics. The initiative will be launched during an international conference and seminar scheduled to hold in Abuja from November 25 to 27, 2025.

In a statement issued by the NBTE Head of Media and Publicity, Hajia Fatimah Abubakar, the Board explained that the new system aims to democratise access to AI education and bridge longstanding connectivity gaps affecting technical institutions nationwide.

According to the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, students should not be deprived of access to emerging technologies due to unreliable internet infrastructure or high data costs. He noted that the decentralised system is designed to give every polytechnic a level playing field for AI and machine learning training.

Bugaje revealed that the Board will unveil 46 custom-built AI and machine learning models developed through a collaboration involving lecturers from Kombolcha Polytechnic in Ethiopia, Nigerian technical institutions, and MOC-LLC in the United States. These models will be provided as Linux-based ISO files that institutions can easily install for classroom instruction, simulations, and applied research.

To address challenges associated with poor internet services, the models and learning tools will run on local networks within each polytechnic. The system operates on Linux and Apache2, enabling laboratories, classrooms, and research units to access AI tools, simulators, and digital libraries without relying on external internet services.

The Executive Secretary noted that the project is part of NBTE’s wider plan to build national capacity in artificial intelligence, engineering technology, data-driven innovation, and industrial development. He emphasized that equipping polytechnics with decentralised AI laboratories will strengthen their role in supporting key sectors such as agriculture, security, manufacturing, and engineering.

As part of the activities lined up for the conference, NBTE will sign an implementation agreement with MOC-LLC USA to establish an intranet-based AI and Machine Learning Research Library Hub at the Board’s headquarters in Abuja. The hub, which will be built and funded by MOC-LLC, will host all post-conference models, system updates, and technical resources.

Bugaje added that polytechnic lecturers and ICT units will be able to download and deploy these tools using open-source technologies such as Linux, MySQL, and Apache2. Every participating institution will receive the full set of ISO images to install on their internal servers, ensuring nationwide access to uniform, high-quality AI tools regardless of connectivity levels.

He urged polytechnic rectors to collaborate with their academic and ICT teams to fully operationalise the new AI and machine learning laboratories. According to him, the system will significantly enhance teaching quality, expand applied research, and strengthen the technical workforce needed to drive Nigeria’s industrial and digital transformation.

He further highlighted that the platform supports interdisciplinary learning, giving students practical skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning, applied statistics, advanced linear algebra, and data science.