The Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) has recently announced the launch of three new undergraduate programs focusing on cybersecurity and related fields. These programs will offer bachelor’s degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, and information technology, and will incorporate a curriculum that includes computing, entrepreneurship capstones, professional skills development, and industry experience.
Nubi Achebo, the director of academic planning at NUTM, shared this news during a press conference, highlighting the university’s commitment to providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for careers in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, NUTM plans to involve adjunct and faculty lecturers in the delivery of the programs, ensuring that students benefit from a diverse range of academic perspectives and real-world expertise.
Furthermore, the university aims to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among its students by partnering with venture capitalists to fund projects that emerge from student research. This hands-on approach to learning and innovation sets NUTM apart and demonstrates its dedication to nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
In addition to the practical aspects of the programs, senior staff at NUTM have emphasized the university’s broader mission, which includes delivering world-class academic excellence in Africa, empowering youth with essential knowledge and skills, and inspiring innovation. By offering specialized undergraduate programs in cybersecurity and related fields, NUTM is contributing to the advancement of education and technology in the region, ultimately shaping the future of the industry.
This announcement comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with its international reputation in the realm of cybersecurity. Recent speeches at Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have called for convicted scammers to be retrained as IT professionals, reflecting a broader recognition of the need to repurpose talent and skills in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Additionally, President Bola Tinubu has dismissed the country’s cybercrime image, indicating a shift in the national narrative surrounding cybersecurity and technology.
Ultimately, the launch of these undergraduate programs at NUTM represents a significant step forward in the development of cybersecurity education and expertise in Nigeria. By equipping students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience, NUTM is empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and contributing to the overall growth and advancement of the industry in Africa.