FUTO Hosts the 11th Annual Convention of NACOSS
…Dr Obinna Oforzoba
The Department of Computer Science of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, hosted the 11th Annual Southeast Convention of the Nigeria Association of Computer Science Students (NACOSS) on “Subscribing to the Digital Age and Technological Advancement” (SUBDATA) held at the School of Physical Science lecture theatre between Wednesday, April 24 and Friday, April 26, 2019.
Addressing the participants, the Dean, School Computing and Information Technology, Engr. Prof. (Mrs.) Gloria Chukwudebe said that the digital age, also referred to as the information age started with the introduction of the personal computer in the 1970s with subsequent introduction of technology which provided the ability to transfer information freely and quickly. She said that our personal life is highly dependent on technology and as people demands and lifestyle change, it automatically affects the demand for advancing the type of technology we use. This advancement in technology she said has helped businesses and organization save time and operation costs by simplifying the way things are done.
Prof. Chukwudebe made reference to the role of women in information technology as belonging to first programmers in the early 20th century but said that as technology and practices altered, the role of women as programmers changed and the recorded history of the field has downplayed their achievements. She recommended that investors should begin to find teams that include women, by investing and creating new opportunities for women. They should also devise a method of eradicating the culture where women do not participate in technological businesses, she said.
On his part, the Head of Department of Computer Science, Dr. (Mrs.) E.C. Nwokorie said that the convention is in line with present and future realities and that the hope of Nigeria’s active presence in the digital age lies in the youth and NACOSS in particular. She said it’s time to alert the world that computer and its applications is a necessity to technological advancement and that indigenous software development is yearning for Nigeria youths to create local content for E-Governance.
Moreover, the Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Chibuike Ani expressed optimism that the convention will challenge the students to the practices and several advancements in the IT community, hence, present the opportunity to subscribe to the advancement in technology.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Prof. Francis Chukwuemeka Eze welcomed everyone to the NACOSS Southeast Convention taking place in the University. He said the convention is to advance the science, practice and propagation of ICT for the wholesome development of the Society.
The Vice-Chancellor represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Julius S. Orebiyi noted that the emergence of new technology keep emanating and surfacing within our environment thereby subjecting us to the challenge of subscribing and adjusting to the new era of technology. He also said that technological advancement has helped business and organizations save time and cost of production, which has been an advantage to all business and a source of gaining competitive advantage.
He informed the participants that FUTO is ICT compliant and proficient, hence, part of the reason for the establishment of the newest School of Computing and Information Technology. He, therefore, counselled the youth to adopt positive use of advanced technology which will result in greater innovation since without technology man will be left in the dark.
Also in attendance to the convention were the Staff Adviser (NACOSS, FUTO) Mr.Obilor Njoku, National President of NACOSS, Comrade Abubakar Sadiq Hassan and other invited guests.
