AI will revolutionise journalism in Nigeria – Prof Pate

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State, Professor Umaru Pate, has said Artificial Intelligence (AI) has come to revolutionise journalism.

He stated this while delivering a keynote address during the 2024 International Conference organised by the Department of Mass Communication of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Daily Trust reports that the theme of the conference was, “Artificial Intelligence, Communication and Knowledge Economy in the 21st Century.”

Prof. Pate, who was the keynote speaker at the conference, described AI as the “intelligence of a machine or computer that enables it to imitate or mimic human capabilities.”

He said the AI uses multiple technologies that equip the machines to sense, comprehend, plan, act, and learn at a human-like level.

The vice chancellor stated that what should be of concern to journalists is that, as much as AI has come to revolutionise the existing pattern of news gathering and dissemination, it has some benefits and also presents some challenges to the practitioners as well.

Prof. Pate, therefore, advised students and journalism practitioners to adapt to and use the technology, in order not to be left out.

He also urged authorities in the education system to also adapt and follow the trends of time by creating an enabling environment for learning that will produce scholars that can function in AI era.

“If you want to think about the future of Journalism, think about the technology. AI technology is here with us, with great prospects and threats to Journalism.

“Invest in innovation and increase our knowledgeability and capabilities to catch up with the rest of the world. Analog manager plus digital technology is useless,” Pate emphasised.