ATBU Trains 50 Young Innovators on AI, Robotics, others in Bauchi

The Centre for Embedded AI and Smart Energy Systems (CEAISES) of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi has trained 50 young innovators on introductory Artificial Intelligence (AI), electronics, robotics, communication and project development.

Dr. Kamilu O. Lawal, the Programme Coordinator, CEAISES, ATBU, stated this in an interview with newsmen in Bauchi on Thursday.

Lawal, a Senior Lecturer from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, ATBU,  and the Industrial Liaison Officer of the Centre, said the one-month training was part of the Centre’s 2026 Summer training targeting young innovators aged between the age of eight to 16.

He explained that the programme focused on providing the participants with an appropriate age introduction to practical Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning.

Lawal added that the objectives of the training  were to introduce the participants to basic concepts in electronics and robotics, provide practical experience with electronic components, breadboards, sensors, motors and simple robotic systems, introduction to the basic idea of Artificial Intelligence and responsible use of AI tools.

Others, he said, included the development of confidence in communication and public speaking, encouraging teamwork, problem solving and creativity through group activities and projects as well as to provide an opportunity for participants to present and exhibit their work at the end of the programme.

Also speaking with newsmen, the Vice Chancellor of the Institution,  Prof. Ibrahim Garba, explained that the 2026 Kid’s AI and Robotics Summer Training Camp was structured as a practical introduction to emerging technologies for children.

“The programme maintained a clear focus on hands-on learning, teamwork and age-appropriate exposure to AI and robotics.

“The experience provides a useful basis for evaluating future editions of the programme, particularly through feedback from parents, participants and instructors, as well as a review of the practical resources and activities used during the camp.

In his contribution, Prof. G. A. Bakare, the Lead, CEAISES, said that participants were oriented on the training environment and the expected standards of conduct, adding that attention was also given to laboratory safety, responsible handling of equipment, teamwork and respect for instructors and fellow participants.

“The training emphasised practical engagement rather than classroom instruction alone. Participants were introduced to electronic components and basic circuits before moving into sensors, displays, switches, motors, motor drivers and robot chassis.

“This progression was intended to allow the children to connect basic electronic concepts with the operation and assembly of simple robotic systems. The AI sessions introduced the participants to basic AI concepts and prompt engineering at an introductory level appropriate for the camp.

“As part of the wider learning experience, participants undertook a short educational excursion to the Centre for Industrial Studies, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and the visit was organised following the recognition of the need to expose the children to practical activities beyond their regular training environment,” he said.

While listing the names of the instructors to include; Engr. Nasiru Abdulsalam, Engr. Jawahir M. Hashir, Engr. Auwal Nasir, Engr. Sulaiman Muhammad, Mrs. Aishatu Hassan, Engr. Bashor Muhammad, Bakare said in attendance during the exhibition were the Dean of Engineering, Prof. Y.S. Haruna, Acting Director Research and Innovation, Dr. M. Y. Isah, parents and other faculty members.