PhD researcher Aishatu Mohammed has delivered a high-impact workshop for over 130 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and 20 policymakers in Nigeria, focused on how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to drive inclusive innovation and sustainable growth.
The workshop, titled “Bridging the AI divide – empowering SMEs with AI for inclusive innovation and sustainable growth,” was hosted at North Eastern University, Gombe, and supported by funding from the Digital Good Network as part of the final stage of Aishatu’s PhD research.
In her session, Aishatu explored how AI is often misunderstood, emphasising that AI is not here to take away jobs, but that individuals and businesses who ignore it risk being replaced by those who embrace it. Her work aims to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and confidence to integrate AI responsibly and effectively within their organisations.
The event attracted national attention, receiving coverage on Nigerian television, with positive mentions for the University of Salford and its international research impact. Watch the TV segment here: Gombe State Govt Embraces Ai For Development
Aishatu said: “Delivering this workshop was one of the most rewarding stages of my PhD journey. Many SMEs came in unsure about AI but left inspired and confident to use it ethically and responsibly. Feedback showed a marked increase in awareness and confidence, with many keen to continue learning and collaborating.
“Coming from Northern Nigeria, where cultural perceptions and limited exposure often shape how technology is received, this experience reinforced my belief that responsible AI education can transform communities.
“With the invaluable guidance and support of my supervisor, Dr Maria Kutar, whose mentorship contributed greatly to the success of the workshop, I am motivated to develop a platform that will continue to raise awareness, build capacity, and promote ethical AI adoption across Africa. I look forward to strengthening collaborations with government agencies and the University of Salford to expand these efforts.”
Dr Maria Kutar, Director of Undergraduate Business and Aishatu’s PhD supervisor, said: “Aisha’s research has generated valuable understanding of the AI divide, and the barriers and challenges that SMEs face as they look to adopt AI.
“The workshop that Aisha has delivered is the first step in using this knowledge to create impact for SMEs, helping them to see how they can use it responsibly to help grow their businesses. Her work clearly aligns with the School’s priorities on responsible digital innovation and the workshop has provided the opportunity for Salford to develop ongoing collaboration with partners in Nigeria, including policymakers.
“Aisha has been an exemplary PhD student since she joined us, and this workshop highlights the importance and value of her research. We are incredibly proud of her achievements; she is a fantastic role model and demonstrates the real impact that research students can generate.”
Following the workshop, discussions are underway to explore potential collaborations and partnerships that build on the success of the initiative, further strengthening Salford’s reputation for research that makes a real-world difference.
