The department of Mass Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have held a national conference on communication, artificial intelligence and drug abuse.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
the three-day event which ends Thursday 6th June, 2024 was holding at the ETF auditorium of the University.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Kate Omenugha explained that the essence of the conference is to use communication and Artificial Intelligence to fight against drug abuse and appreciated NDLEA for how it is using the War Against Drug Abuse, WADA platform to tackle drug use across Nigeria.
Omenugha advised the students to listen, learn and put what they learned into action, saying that they should know that when they as communicators, do things that make the society to see them in a negative perspective, then they are practicing destructive communication.
The Keynote Speaker, and Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, of NDLEA, retired Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa represented by the State Commander of the agency, Mr Daniel Onyisi described Artificial Intelligence as the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer system and explained that combining AI with traditional counseling and medical treatment can create a more comprehensive approach to addressing drug abuse.
Brigadier General Buba Marwa said ongoing research is necessary to improve AI algorithms ensuring they remain effective and unbiased and also stated that leveraging on the power of AI and effective communication strategies, they can create more proactive and personalized approaches to combat drug abuse, supporting individuals in their their journey towards recovery and a healthier life.
The Host and Acting Head of Mass Communication Department, Dr. Nonye Ezeaka in her welcome address believes that communication plays a crucial role in preventing drug abuse, promoting recovery, and reducing the stigma associated with addiction hence the reasons the conference is a significant step in the collective efforts to address these critical issues.
The Lead Paper Presenter and Acting Vice-Chancellor, Glorious Vision University, Edo State, Professor Ezekiel Asemah pointed out that drug abuse has destroyed many lives both old and young and told the students to know that as young people they have very bright future and should not allow drug to destroy them.
The Chairman, Local Organizing Committee of the conference, Dr Gideon Nwafor appreciated the Acting Vice-Chancellor for approving the conference, their resource persons for honouring their invitations and members of the local organizing committee for delivering the roles assigned to them.
