RismadarVoice Reporters
November 9, 2026
Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, has deployed an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) research platform developed by United States-based technology company MOC-LLC to strengthen scientific research, technological innovation and practical skills development.
The initiative was unveiled on November 3, 2026, at the university’s Information and Communication Technology Centre, alongside the donation of a dedicated research server by the technology company.
The platform is designed to support interdisciplinary research, scientific modelling, data analysis and practical training across fields including engineering, agriculture, healthcare, education and environmental sciences.
According to the organisers, the system provides access to hundreds of research resources, including 643 applied research and conceptual frameworks and 200 interdisciplinary projects.
Its locally hosted infrastructure is also intended to enable researchers and students to access selected resources through the university’s internal network without continuous internet connectivity.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, described the deployment as an important milestone in the institution’s digitalisation programme.
He said emerging technologies had become essential to modern academic research and encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the training to their respective disciplines.
Zeb-Obipi also commended MOC-LLC’s representative, Dr Mfon Okpok, for supporting technological development and practical research training.
Okpok explained that the initiative was designed to move AI and machine learning beyond theoretical discussions into practical classroom applications and scientific investigations.
He expressed optimism that the platform would support prototype development, research publications, innovation and projects capable of attracting grants.
The deployment follows the introduction of the technology at Hawassa University in Ethiopia on October 16, while the University of Abuja is preparing for a similar initiative.
The University of Abuja’s Director of the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Innovative Technology, Professor Emmanuel Eronu, attended the RSU programme on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi.
The participating institutions are exploring opportunities for collaboration in joint research, postgraduate supervision, academic exchanges and international conferences.
Beyond academic activities, the initiative is expected to encourage technology-driven entrepreneurship and the development of practical solutions to challenges in manufacturing, renewable energy, agriculture and other sectors.
However, its anticipated contributions to employment generation and industrial productivity remain prospective benefits rather than independently measured outcomes.
The university expects the platform to strengthen research capacity and expand opportunities for students and lecturers to develop locally relevant technological solutions.
