The inclusion of new technologies in information and communication in the curriculum of tertiary institutions most especially, Polytechnics, would help in enhancing students digital literacy, as well as, pave the way for a well–informed society, who could be active players within the level of global advancement.

Special Adviser to Ogun State governor on Technical and Vocational Education, Prof. Joseph Odemuyiwa, who made the assertion while delivering a virtual keynote address at the 2nd National Conference of the School of Communication and Information Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, posited that since the Polytechnics focus was on technology, the need to infuse new technologies such as cloud computing, robust device, video channel, robotic process automation and artificial intelligence among others, cannot be overstressed.

Odemuyiwa who spoke on the theme: “Emerging Trends in Information and Communication Practices for Societal Advancement”, maintained that the world has advanced and emerged in the area of new technologies in information and communication, advising students to also evolve with the trend in order to be relevant and make meaningful contributions in the society.

He said that the Prince-Dapo Abiodun-led administration would continue to work towards promoting the inclusion of new technologies in information and communication as it has embarked on series of ICT and technological-driven programmes aimed at enhancing the ICT skills of its people.

‘’As a government in Ogun State, we are not losing sight of our responsibility to contribute to the emerging trends through global communication practice. To this end, we have a well-equipped ICT centre in the Ogun TECHHUB, Abeokuta, where we have regular training programmes to prepare our Youths for latest communication practices required in an advanced global society. This role is being taking serious, hence the establishment of Ogun State Bureau of Information and Communication Technology’’, he submitted.

The governor’s aid said we live in the era of digitalization that necessitates digital literacy, revealing that in this modern world, the possession of needed skills to live, learn, and work in the present society where communication and access to information is increasing through digital technologies like internet platforms, social media and mobile devices was a must for all.

The renowned Prof. of Business Education described undergraduates as catalysts for industrialization, change, innovation and promoters of civilization and globalization, who must embrace new technologies in information and communication, pointing out that without it, their ideas, become obsolete irrespective of its potentials.

Speaking earlier, Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Olusegun Aluko, highlighted that the choice of the theme became imperative in order to get students as well as teachers acquainted and be part of the transition era the world is experiencing and to further help them adopt technological approach in executing ideas, he appreciated Prof. Odemuyiwa and others for honouring the school.