–
Tag: Nigeria
-
Waqf-Based Financing Models for Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Nigerian Educational Curriculum: Infrastructure, Policy, and Sustainability Perspectives
» Journal of Regional Development and Technology Initiatives
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is a growing global priority, particularly in addressing digital competencies and improving teaching quality. However, Nigeria faces significant challenges in adopting AI due to inadequate infrastructure, investment, and skilled personnel. This chapter discusses the potential of waqf (Islamic endowment) as a sustainable funding strategy to support AI in education, focusing on infrastructure, policy alignment, and long-term sustainability. It highlights traditional waqf’s historical role in financing education and proposes a waqf-based financing model that incorporates infrastructural development, governance frameworks, and sustainability. This research employs a qualitative and conceptual layout focused on Islamic social finance literature and artificial intelligence in education and infrastructural development in Nigeria. It uses a comparative analysis of successful waqf-based educational financing models from selected Muslim countries, proposing a conceptual framework for a waqf financing model that integrates infrastructure development, policy alignment, governance structures, and sustainability mechanisms for AI in education. This approach aims to reposition waqf to support digital transformation, reduce educational inequality, and promote sustainable educational advancement in Nigeria. The model aims to bridge the digital divide through well-targeted waqf investments, promoting equitable access to education. It also calls for regulatory support for waqf integration into national strategies and emphasizes governance transparency. By fostering human capital development among educators and addressing ethical concerns, waqf initiatives can ensure responsible AI integration. The chapter draws insights from successful waqf models in other countries to advocate for a strategic reorientation of Islamic finance to meet technological needs in Nigeria’s education system, ultimately fostering educational innovation and sustainable development.
-
The Relevance of Waqf in Supporting Environmental Education and Sustainable Development
» Journal of Regional Development and Technology Initiatives
Background: Climate change and environmental degradation have become major worldwide issues, particularly in poorer nations. There are still gaps in funding and community-level instruction for sustainable environmental practices, despite global commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although the Islamic institution of waqf, a type of perpetual charity endowment, has long been important for social welfare, little is known about how it might help with sustainability and environmental education. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the applicability and potential of waqf in advancing sustainable development and environmental education. It looks at how waqf can be set up and used to support environmental initiatives, ecological literacy, and awareness-raising initiatives both inside and outside of Muslim communities. Methodology: Using content analysis of original Islamic law sources, historical case studies, and modern waqf models from nations like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkey, a qualitative research approach was used. To learn more about real-world applications and difficulties, semi-structured interviews were also done with community leaders, environmental academics, and waqf officials. Findings: By creating eco-friendly schools, assisting research facilities, financing green technology, and supporting awareness campaigns based on Islamic ecological ideals, waqf can make a substantial contribution to environmental education and sustainable development, according to the study. Examples from history show that waqf holdings were historically utilized to protect public amenities and natural resources like forests and water sources. In certain nations with a majority of Muslims, contemporary waqf organizations are already starting to adjust to sustainability goals. However, because of a lack of knowledge, legal restrictions, and a lack of creativity in waqf management, this integration is still quite low. Limitations: The scope of this study focuses on a few Muslim-majority nations with operational waqf organizations. Access to waqf administrative documents and some parties’ reluctance to reveal financial strategies are further barriers to empirical data. Originality: Waqf is an underutilized financial and educational tool for promoting sustainability and environmental care. Policy changes, community involvement, and strategic alliances that match waqf with international sustainability goals and Islamic environmental norms are necessary to optimize its impact.
-
AI Integration in Nigeria’s Financial Sector: Challenges and Opportunities for Professional Development
» Journal of Regional Development and Technology Initiatives
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming banking, accounting, auditing, risk management, and customer service operations. In Nigeria, the integration of AI into the financial sector presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges. This study examines the implications of AI adoption for professional development among Nigerian finance practitioners. Based on the frameworks of technological diffusion and human capital development, the research investigates how AI-driven tools like machine learning, natural language processing, robotic process automation, and predictive analytics are influencing financial practices and the skills required of professionals. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining survey data from finance professionals in selected Nigerian banks and fintech firms with qualitative interviews with regulators, educators, and technology experts. In addition to highlighting important opportunities like increased productivity, fraud detection, financial inclusion, and better decision-making, the findings are anticipated to point out significant obstacles like job displacement, ethical dilemmas, regulatory gaps, and a lack of professional AI literacy. In order to create a workforce prepared for AI, the study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing professional development, curriculum change in finance and accounting education, and cooperative efforts between the government, business community, and professional associations. The study conclude that effective AI integration in Nigeria’s financial sector depends not only on the availability of technology but also on giving finance professionals the knowledge, moral compass, and flexible abilities they need to prosper in the age of digital transformation.