A one-day workshop organized by the Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA), University of Lagos (UNILAG) Branch, has ended with a call for administrative staff to adopt smarter work practices.
The workshop, held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Senate Chamber, Senate House, UNILAG, focused on the theme: Working Smart: Automating Administrative Tasks with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The sub-themes included:
- Introduction to digital systems (navigating computer systems and system configuration)
- Introduction to AI in institutional administration
- AI for smart document management
- AI in communication and collaboration
The workshop drew participants from UNILAG and various ANUPA chapters from universities across Nigeria’s Southwest region, including Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) Ijagun, and the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
Keynote Addresses
The Registrar of UNILAG, Mrs. V. Abosede Wickliffe, represented by the Director of Academic Affairs, Mr. Michael Uwakwe, opened the workshop with a compelling address. She noted the ability of AI to revolutionize tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and document management, thereby enabling smoother operations.
While underscoring the workshop’s importance in equipping administrators with tools to streamline processes, minimize errors, and work smarter, Mrs. Wickliffe encouraged participants to embrace intelligent automation and a tech-savvy administrative environment.
In his remarks, the Deputy Registrar (Office of the Vice-Chancellor), Mr. Abolade Akinwunmi, reinforced the critical role of AI in modern administration, emphasizing that administrators must learn, relearn, and unlearn to remain relevant.
His words, “AI is not merely a tool; it’s a catalyst for redefining how we serve our institutions and communities.”
Delivering a compelling call to action that aligned the workshop’s theme with the F.I.R.M (Financial Engineering, Infrastructural Development, Reputation Building through Research and Manpower Development) agenda of the current Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Mr Akinwunmi, described the workshop as a vital step towards equipping administrators with cutting-edge skills to tackle evolving challenges.
Earlier in welcome address, ANUPA-UNILAG Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Olojede, outlined the Association’s mission to transform university administration through continuous innovative training programs.
He expressed gratitude to members for their commitment and highlighted plans to expand training programs, foster inter-university collaboration, and advocate for policies that elevate administrative standards.
Workshop Highlights
The workshop featured hands-on AI demonstrations facilitated by the Acting Head of the Department of Computer Science, UNILAG, Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo.
She showcased how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can redefine administrative operations, equipping participants with cutting-edge tools and elevating institutional performance.
Dr. Yinka-Banjo’s presentation included:
- A captivating exploration of AI’s historical roots.
- Real-world case studies demonstrating the benefits of AI in administration.
- Addressing common misconceptions about AI and its potential to complement human expertise.
The workshop provided an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and engage with Dr. Yinka-Banjo, gaining actionable strategies to implement automation in their workplaces.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Nike Ogunshakin
