In a significant move to reposition the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) for excellence in the digital age, the institution on Thursday, September 11, 2025, hosted a high-level courtesy visit from Data Space. The event, themed “Instituting Outlook in the Digital Era,” was organized in collaboration with the FUOYE Alumni Association and held at the Fasina Conference Centre, Phase 3 of the university.
The programme marked the fourth edition of Data Space’s nationwide Digital Awareness Programme, which is being introduced across Nigerian universities. Its main objective is to enlighten both students and staff on responsible data usage, digital rights, and the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data protection in today’s knowledge-driven economy.
Upon arrival, the visiting team was formally introduced to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, and other members of FUOYE’s management team. Professor Olubukola Oyawoye welcomed the delegation on behalf of the university, stressing the timeliness of the initiative and its relevance to the current realities in higher education.
In her remarks, Professor Oyawoye underscored the urgent need to address digital irresponsibility among Nigerian students. “You would admit that our students do not know the limits when using data. They post anything, including inappropriate content on social media, without understanding the consequences,” she said. She explained that the initiative would not only create a digital awareness club for students but also close gaps in digital literacy among staff.
She further noted that the involvement of the university’s Director of Career Services, Professor Aderibigbe, underscored the wider importance of the programme, since career development in the 21st century is deeply tied to digital responsibility and technological competence.
Speaking at the programme, Barrister Alexander Omoni, a representative of the Data Space team, stressed the growing concerns over data misuse and violations of digital rights in Nigeria. According to him, many people are unaware that they possess digital privacy rights, including protections around personal and sensitive data.
“One of the major pillars of data protection is human capital,” Omoni stated. “We are here to regulate how people interact with the digital space. This programme ensures that no one is left behind; students, staff, everyone must be carried along.”
Responding on behalf of FUOYE, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, expressed gratitude for the honour of being selected as one of the few universities to benefit from the programme. “We are glad to receive you here in FUOYE. It is significant that this is only the fourth university you are visiting. We do not take that for granted,” he said.
Professor Shittu, however, raised thought-provoking questions about Nigeria’s readiness for data protection and effective implementation. “In Nigeria, we are good at making plans and developing strategies, but when it comes to implementation, we often fail. So the question is: how secure are we in this data space?” he asked.
In a reflective tone, the Acting Vice-Chancellor quoted scripture, observing that “in the latter days, knowledge shall increase. Truly, knowledge has increased, but unfortunately, the way we invest our data is often negative.” He pledged FUOYE’s full support for the initiative, declaring, “We are ready to key into this programme. We will do everything possible to ensure its success and prove to the world that what we are saying and doing is real.”
The event was graced by several notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Tajudeen Bolanle Opoola; Mr. Dolapo Muftau of the Digital Department, Nigeria Data Protection and Privacy; Mr. Sunday Akinkunmi, representing the University Registrar; Professor Aderibigbe, Director of Career Services; and Mr. Babatope, President of the FUOYE Alumni Association.
For many participants, the programme provided an eye-opening experience on the implications of poor data management, cyber risks, and the need for stronger digital ethics. Students who attended shared enthusiasm for the formation of a digital awareness club, which they believe will keep the conversation alive within the campus.
The long-term impact of the initiative is expected to be significant, equipping FUOYE students and staff with knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world responsibly and effectively. As the global economy increasingly revolves around digital innovations, programmes such as this position universities as active players in creating informed, secure, and technologically responsible citizens.
By embracing the Digital Awareness Programme, FUOYE has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation, digital literacy, and responsible technology use all hallmarks of a true 21st-century institution.
