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Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing are two transformative technologies shaping the future of science, industry, and information systems. AI focuses on developing intelligent systems capable of learning, reasoning, and decision-making, while quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics—such as superposition and entanglement—to perform computations far beyond the capabilities of classical computers. As the complexity of data and computational problems continues to increase, the integration of AI with quantum computing is emerging as a powerful interdisciplinary field that can revolutionize problem-solving across domains such as healthcare, finance, cybersecurity, and scientific research.

Innovation in Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence has advanced rapidly through developments in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. These technologies enable computers to analyze massive datasets, detect patterns, and make predictions with high accuracy. Recent innovations in AI include generative AI models, reinforcement learning, and autonomous decision-making systems. AI systems are now capable of optimizing complex processes, improving automation, and supporting intelligent analytics in areas such as medical diagnosis, climate modeling, and smart infrastructure. The growth of AI has also increased the demand for faster and more efficient computing systems, which has opened new opportunities for quantum technologies.

 Relationship Between AI and Quantum Computing

AI and quantum computing are closely interconnected and mutually supportive. Quantum computers can potentially accelerate AI algorithms by processing large-scale data and performing complex optimizations at unprecedented speeds. For example, quantum machine learning algorithms can enhance pattern recognition, data clustering, and predictive analytics.

Conversely, AI can help improve quantum computing itself. Machine learning techniques are used to optimize quantum circuits, reduce noise in quantum hardware, and improve error correction methods. AI-driven models can also assist researchers in discovering new quantum algorithms and materials for building stable quantum processors. This symbiotic relationship creates a new research field known as Quantum Artificial Intelligence (QAI), where AI techniques are applied to quantum systems and quantum computing enhances AI capabilities.

Applications and Emerging Impact

The integration of AI with quantum computing has the potential to transform several sectors. In healthcare, quantum-enhanced AI can accelerate drug discovery and genomic analysis. In cybersecurity, quantum algorithms combined with AI can strengthen encryption and threat detection. Financial institutions may use quantum-AI models to optimize portfolios and risk analysis. Similarly, climate science, logistics, and materials science can benefit from faster simulations and predictive models enabled by this technological convergence.

Conclusion

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing represents one of the most promising frontiers in modern technology. AI contributes intelligent algorithms and data-driven decision making, while quantum computing provides immense computational power to solve complex problems that classical computers struggle to address. Together, these technologies have the potential to reshape scientific discovery, industrial innovation, and digital infrastructure in the coming decades. Continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and responsible technological development will be essential to fully harness the transformative potential of AI-driven quantum computing.

References

  1. Nielsen, M. A., & Chuang, I. L. (2010). Quantum Computation and Quantum Information. Cambridge University Press.
  2. Biamonte, J., et al. (2017). Quantum machine learning. Nature, 549(7671), 195–202.
  3. Schuld, M., & Petruccione, F. (2018). Supervised Learning with Quantum Computers. Springer.
  4. Preskill, J. (2018). Quantum computing in the NISQ era and beyond. Quantum, 2, 79.
  5. Dunjko, V., & Briegel, H. (2018). Machine learning and artificial intelligence in the quantum domain. Reports on Progress in Physics, 81(7).                                                                                Written by,Dr. A. Senthilkumar, Dean, School of Science and Information Technology,   Skyline University Nigeria

New Biomolecules through Evolution

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Biomolecules are made in the living system and some of the Biomolecules which find applications are made in the laboratory/industry. Biomolecules can be synthesized by using pure chemical methods (synthetic) or pure biological methods or sometimes, a mixture of both chemical and Biological Procedure (semi-synthetic). Biomolecules which are available in the natural environment have been engineered by using synthetic, semisynthetic or pure biological methods which are usually called genetic engineering. But a very novel biological method using the concept of evolution had been developed by scientist Frances Hamilton Arnold, Linus Pauling Professor of Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering and Biochemistry at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) which is called as Directed Evolution (DE) for the engineering of Protein molecules (Protein Engineering). Development of this technology has been awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2018. Directed evolution is an iteration of the natural evolution cycle in a laboratory (Evolution in vitro). Three processes occurred in a natural Evolution: variation between replicators and the variation causes fitness differences upon which selection acts, and accumulated variation is heritable. In DE, a single gene is evolved by iterative rounds of error-prone mutagenesis, screening, followed by amplification. Rounds of these steps are typically repeated, using the best variant from one round as the template for the next to achieve stepwise improvements. The likelihood of success in a directed evolution experiment is directly related to the total library size, as evaluating more mutants increases the chances of finding one with the desired properties (1). An example of directed evolution with comparison to natural evolution. The inner cycle indicates the 3 stages of the directed evolution cycle with the natural process being mimicked in brackets. The outer circle demonstrates steps in a typical experiment. The red symbols indicate functional variants, the pale symbols indicate variants with reduced function. Directed evolution is frequently used for protein engineering as an alternative to rational design, but can also be used to investigate fundamental questions of enzyme evolution (1). References:(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Directed_evolution.(2) https://sciencebriefss.com/dictionary/directed-evolution Dr. Susanta Pahari is a Professor of Biochemistry in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD. in Biochemistry from University of Calcutta, India. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Can bacterial cells be used as computer storage devices?

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The idea of using bacterial cells for storing information has been thought of for a long time. This idea was a result of the large quantity of new information rapidly generated on a daily basis [1]. At present, the International Data Corporation (IDC) estimated that on a daily basis, about 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are generated, much of which is machine and human-generated data, and the pace is rapidly accelerating. The IDC further estimated that by 2025, newly generated data up to 180 zettabytes (ZB) orbytes 1.8 x1023 bytes will be created. These figures are very large to fathom. To perfectly understand these large estimates, the estimates exceed the radius of the observable universe which is 43 x 1021 km, exactly two orders of magnitude lesser than the said estimate of bytes [2]. The use of machine learning techniques has further intensified this need for an alternative means of storing a large volume of information. This technique entails the use of social networks, and navigation systems that run over big volumes of data. To end this problem of data storage, alternative means of information storage are required. One promising solution is the use of bacterial Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This storage technique uses non-motile bacteria and the information to be stored is digitally encoded. The whole process works by the use of bacterial Nano networks which allow for molecular communication [3]. As technological advancement continues to move in a rapid manner, as evident by the high technology computers and phones we use, which come with high resolution cameras, that continue to consume much space, there is the fear that if an alternative as well as a sustainable means of data storage is not devised, the breakthrough in the technological industries will be halted, and this might affect the computer/electronic industries as well as global economies. This challenge has made researchers dwell into finding alternative ways of data storage, which entails the use of bacterial cells. This might not be in connection with the obvious fact that bacteria retain the credit of one of the most abundant life forms on earth with the ability to grow into millions within just 18 to 24 hours. Of all the bacterial cells on earth amounting to  bacterial taxonomists argued that only about less than 5% have been discovered. This 5% is thought to reach hundreds of thousands of different bacteria each with unique distinguishing properties the diverse groups of bacteria, the bacteria Escherichia coli, usually abbreviated as E. coli has proven to be the most promising candidate in DNA Molecular Data Storage Systems.  The bacteria (E. coli) remains the only bacteria whose genome (a pool containing all the genetic elements of a cell) has largely been studied, this allows for the modification via the alteration of given cell properties. This often results in many breakthroughs in the field of Microbiology, from gene therapy, production of recombinant vaccines and single-cell proteins, and Bacterial intelligence, a technique that integrates cell Programmeming with genetic circuit which allows for the E. coli cell to solve the diverse classical problem in artificial intelligence that today are solved by computers [3], and many more techniques to be available in the near future. The bacterial DNA encodes all the genetic information encoded by the cell which comprises all the cell characteristics and is capable of replicating in other for the cell to maintain its generation. This is achieved as the cell continues to grow. In bacterial cells, growth is defined as an increase in the number of cells as opposed to an increase in size. This storage technique offers numerous advantages, as the copy of stored information increases as the bacterial cells grow. This generates many different copies of a single data that is stored, hence decreasing the likelihood of missing information. More so, this storage technique offers the opportunity to store condensed information with long-term stability. Before now, the main challenge faced by Molecular Microbiologists and other Bioinformaticians is the means by which this information can be safely retrieved. However, subsequent studies on Microbial genetics and molecular biology approach were able to provide solutions to these problems as scientists were able to find a more promising technique of data retrieval of all stored information via the use of genetically engineered motile bacteria, which handle the task of reading operations. Although reading operations has been identified as a solution to the problem, the challenge now is how the entire reading process of the encoded information can be automated, especially if the stored information is archived all together. Recent developments in bacterial studies suggest the use of molecular communications which uses the cell molecular signaling mechanisms via a quorum sensing approach. In this approach, the bacterial DNA is seen as the software whereas the whole cell is seen as the hardware component. The whole idea of the use of bacteria as storage devices (Biostorage) employs the use of bacterial nanonetworks (figure 1) along with some plasmids. The plasmids are extra chromosomal material containing some set of information, that confer on bacteria some given properties. In this technique, the plasmids are encoded with some set of needed digital information usually from an archive library and the engineered bacteria (E. Coli) are made to pick up those plasmids. The plasmids will then deliver the encoded information into the cell for sequencing operations and then decode the information. Simulations (imitation of the operation of a given system) are then employed to assess how the information is transferred into the cell as well as assess how it affects the E. coli cells as it is assembled towards a given destination in the cell. To assess the ability of the bacteria to pick the data of choice for storage, as well as the retrieval of the archived information, techniques such as; Molecular Positioning System, digitally encoded-DNA archive system, System validation, and Wet lab experiments (figure 2 and 3) must be taken into consideration. Figure 1: Overall system architecture of the DNA archival system that enables reading using bacterial nanonetworks.

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Discovery of Human Genetics, A double-edged sword

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One of the most important human milestones ever achieved in the history of humanity was the discovery of the Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) structure. This was a turning point for scientists and engineers (Geneticists, Biotechnologists, Biochemists, Microbiologists e.t.c.) for far greater yet thrilling manipulations that aim to help humans evolve and transcend the natural phenomena they were known for. For starters, we now have a greater understanding of biological concepts ranging from heredity to protein production. This is why James Watson and Francis Crick, who are credited with making the discovery, will always be obliged to the scientific community. A few decades later, James Watson oversaw the Human Genomic Project (HJP), one of the most complex initiatives ever undertaken by a group of international experts from all corners of the universe. This effort was in charge of mapping every human gene, which implies that every gene purported to code for any character or protein has been discovered, sequenced, and thoroughly investigated (In fact, each gene is now identified by a code, number and location on the human chromosome). Amazing advancements in medicine and health resulted from this, yet some situations may go beyond what is morally acceptable. Although many other developments, such as the successful artificial cloning of an animal and the emergence of gene therapies, have given us a previously unattainable understanding of the genome, it is crucial to maintain control over this quick evolution. This leads to the development of a new area of genetics known as gene knockout technology. For example, during the embryonic development of a fetus, if a gene mapping is done and it is discovered that there is a defective gene (for sickle cell anemia for instance), that particular defective gene can be knocked out, which will automatically do away with the possibility of the child developing sickle cell anemia after differentiation. However, this has never been practiced in humans as it poses a great risk of the destruction of other viable genes. It is worthy of note that there have been several animal studies, especially in rodents and quite a few of them were found to be successful. Utilizing nuclear transfer from a cell derived from the mammary gland, the Roslin Institute in Scotland created Dolly the sheep (the first cloned animal from an adult non sex cells). Her cloning demonstrated that a mature cell from a particular body component may be used to create a cloned organism. The world’s first academic institution, A&M University in Texas, USA, cloned six animals in six years, including cattle, a boer goat, pigs, a deer, a horse, and – most notably – a cat called cc. We have also seen, as a result, the production of biological and nuclear weapons as well as their profoundly damaging effects.  Thus, a balance between what possibly needs to be achieved and what should be undertaken must be struck. Disorders like Down syndrome and Sickle Cell Disease are the direct result of faulty genetics and a cure for them is nearly impossible due to the trillions of cells in your body and the even greater amount of DNA that would need to be altered.  However, a form of genetic engineering known as genomic editing could solve this problem.  The utilization of a tool known as CRISPR-Cas9 has profound implications that could influence us very shortly. Weather scientists are indeed playing god with the way genes are now being manipulated, it is up to us to remedy errors that come with nature, and by that, we will be utilizing the knowledge for the benefit of mankind. References Campbell, Neil; Reece, Jane (2005). Biology. San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings. p. 265. ISBN 0-07-366175-9. McKusick, Victor A.; Lopez, A (30 July 2010). “Earlobe Attachment, Attached vs. Unattached”. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man. Johns Hopkins University. 128900. Down Syndrome” Mosby’s Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing & Health Professions. Elsevier Health Sciences. Retrieved 27 September 2013. Autosomal Recessive: Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Anemia, Tay Sachs Disease”. Medical Genetics. Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. 3 February 2008. Satyanarayana, U. (2021). Biochemistry, 6e-E-book. Elsevier Health Sciences. Voet, D., & Voet, J. G. (2010). Biochemistry. John Wiley & Sons.   Abdurrazak Muhammad is an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry, Skyline University Nigeria (SUN). He has an M.Sc. in Medical Biochemistry from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (Unisza) Malaysia  You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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How High-Value-Added Industrial Chemicals can be Derived from Biomass Wastes

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Graphical abstract Introduction The increasing amount of biomass wastes which has led to serious environmental issues, coupled with unstable petroleum resources have prompted the need to explore the conversion of biomass wastes into value-added chemicals. About 100 billion metric tons of biomass waste material are produced yearly all over the world (Cho et al., 2020). Biomass waste includes a diverse range of materials such as municipal solid waste (MSW), forestry residues, agricultural wastes, fruit processing waste, and waste from other food processing industries (Zhou and Wang, 2020). Majority of these wastes are left in the field to decompose naturally, discarded in landfill space, or burned in the open for cooking, drying, and charcoal production, which not only has low efficiency but also causes significant environmental pollution such as greenhouse gas emissions and air quality deterioration. Hence, establishing an environmentally friendly and efficient strategy for utilizing and managing different kinds of biomass waste by converting them into high value industrial products for various medical, industrial and environmental applications is paramount. Biomass waste is expected to generate 20% of transportation fuels and 25% of industrial chemicals by 2030 (Clauser et al., 2021). Although, several approach such as physical, chemical, and biological techniques towards valorization of biomass waste have been explored and shown successful degradation over the year, they still have their shortcomings. Biological approach particularly enzymatic deconstruction has the potential to replace the current techniques adopted and generate higher yields, greater selectivity, and reduced costs, as well as the production of fewer inhibitory byproducts (Cho et al., 2020). This mini review summarizes the different types of biomass waste, various technologies employ in their valorization, and the types of high-value-added industrial chemicals derived from the wastes. Chemical constituents of biomass waste Biomass wastes can emanate from variety of sources namely; municipal pruning, agriculture and forestry, food and fruit processing industries, wood industries etc. These biomass wastes comprise of intricate matrix of three main constituents namely cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, which must be broken-down to acceptable product yields (Clauser et al., 2021). Other components associated with biomass are lignin, collagen, gelatin, keratin, chitin, xylan, glucan etc. Cellulose is the most ubiquitous polymer, accounting for 40-50% of all plant and woody biomass by weight (Zhou and Wang, 2020). It is the biomass skeleton, and the protective layer is lignin. To form a lignin-carbohydrate complex structure, they are linked together by covalent bonds and non-covalent hydrogen bonds (Yin et al., 2021). The lignocellulosic matrix is formed by the strong bonding of these three components. As a result of the physical and chemical complexity of the constituents, efficient measures must be taken to fully expose the cellulose structure, increase cellulose effective contact with reactants, and enhance the conversion rate of biomass (Zhang et al., 2020). Hemicellulose is hydrogen-bonded to cellulose and covalently linked to lignin. Lignin is the main structural compound in the formation of plant cell walls, particularly in wood and bark due to its aromatic structure, which increases strength and rigidity. Lignin may have varying physicochemical properties depending on the type of biomass and extraction technique (Zhou and Wang, 2020). It acts as a protective shield for cellulose microfibrils, causing cellulose hydrolysis to glucose difficult. Furthermore, the lignin-hemicellulose link inhibits the deconstruction of cellulose microfibrils to pentose and hexose sugars. As a result, lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) requires optimal pretreatment to remove the highest lignin content and degrade the cellulose into simple sugars via saccharification so that fermentative microorganisms can produce the most amount of targeted industrial chemicals (Clauser et al., 2021). Valorization of biomass waste into high-value-added industrial chemicals The concept of bio-converting waste resources into more valuable industrial chemicals and/or products is known as waste valorization (Gumisiriza et al., 2017). The various aforementioned waste materials can be converted into high-value-added industrial chemicals using different green processing technologies with the aim of reducing wastes deposited in the environment (Arancon et al., 2017). Several processing technologies such as physical (e.g. mechanical comminution, irradiation, microwave, ultrasonication, hydrothermal etc.), chemical (e.g. acid and alkaline hydrolysis, ozonolysis, ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents etc.), physiochemical (e.g. steam explosion, supercritical fluid, wet oxidation etc.), and biological (use of enzymes and microbes) for biomass waste conversion into fine chemicals have previously and recently been explored. However, little or no success has been accomplished due to the recalcitrant nature of lignin posed by its tight cross-link with cellulose and hemicellulose (Ning et al., 2021). Therefore, to compensate for the problems accustomed with a single technique of biomass valorization, researchers now combine two or more pretreatment technologies with fewer shortcomings (Bhatia et al., 2021; Ning et al., 2021). This will also enhance biomass waste deconstruction, especially by focusing more on recent technologies that support lignin removal. The various high-value industrial chemicals that can be derived from waste biomass are broadly categorized into three groups namely; sugar and sugar alcohol (e.g. glucose, arabinose, mannitol etc.); biodiesel and esters; bio-oil, bio-char, and synthetic gas, which produce downstream chemicals like alcohols, polyols, carboxylic acids, organic acids, polymers, furan, bio-gas, liquid alkanes, and amino acids. All these chemicals show diverse industrial applications especially in the field of agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, biomedicals, food, fragrances, cosmetics, building, aerospace etc. (Ning et al., 2021). Conclusion The present mini-review highlights the significance and potential of lignocellulosic waste biomass for production of high-value industrial chemicals. The valorization of biomass wastes into high-value-added chemicals has drawn attention lately because of the projected decline in availability of petroleum resources (utilized for production of these industrial products via the conventional technology), as well as the unceasing increase in the amount of biomass waste generated in the environment. The high-value chemicals generated from the biomass waste have promising potential applications in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, food, and cosmetic industries, thus they are worthy of recovery. However, the currently available waste valorization technologies face various challenges ranging from cost and energy ineffectiveness to process inefficiency and environmental unfriendliness. Hence, further research on improving the existing biomass conversion technologies to become a green sustainable approach for valorization of our ever increasing

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Artificial Intelligence

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Artificial Intelligence (AI), the ability of a virtual PC or computer-manages robotic to carry out duties generally associated with human beings. The term is regularly carried out to the undertaking of growing structures endowed with the intellectual tactics characteristic of human beings, along with the capacity to cause, discover which means, generalize, or analyze from previous experiences. How does AI work? As the hype around AI has multiplied, providers had been scrambling to sell how their products and services use AI. Frequently what they refer to as AI is genuinely one factor of AI, such as device mastering. AI calls for a basis of specialized hardware and software Programme for writing and training machine learning algorithms. No one Programmeming language is synonymous with AI, but a few, consisting of Python, R and Java, are famous. In well known, AI structures work through ingesting huge amounts of labeled training dataset, analyzing the dataset for correlations and finding the new patterns, and the use of these styles to make predictions about future. In this manner, a chatbot this is fed examples of text chats can learn to produce sensible exchanges with humans, or an photograph recognition device can learn how to discover and describe objects in pix by way of reviewing hundreds of thousands of examples. AI Programmeming makes a specialty of three cognitive abilities: learning, reasoning and Self-correction. Artificial neural networks and deep learning knowledge of AI technologies are quickly evolving, commonly due to the fact AI procedures large quantities of data an awful lot faster and makes future predictions extra appropriately than humanly feasible. while the large quantity of data being created on a daily basis could bury a human researcher, AI Programmes that use ML algorithms can take that information and speedy turn it into actionable information. AI is costly due to use of huge data sets. Advantages Good for handling huge data sets. Can get future predictions. Time consuming. Accurate results can get. Disadvantages Experts needed to work with AI. References https://www.oracle.com/in/artificial-intelligence/what-is-ai/ https://www.britannica.com/technology/artificial-intelligence https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/AI-Artificial-Intelligence https://www.hpe.com/hpe/what_is_ai   Dr. M. Ashok Kumar is a Lecturer I in the Department of Computer Science, Skyline University Nigeria. He has a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Periyar University, India. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Modernization of Nigerian Abattoirs is the need of the hour

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According to one estimate, the global protein ingredients market size is projected to surpass around US$ 114.6 billion by 2030 [1]. Meat is a major source of protein that is in high demand all over the world. The increased demand for high-protein foods has resulted from the world’s growing population. This demand is felt more acutely in developing countries such as Nigeria. Every day millions of people across the globe depend on meat supply from abattoirs. In Nigeria, over 1.3 million cows are slaughtered yearly, as cattle alone provide about 30 percent of the meat consumed in the country [2]. A slaughterhouse, also called an abattoir, is a facility where animals are slaughtered to provide animal meat for human consumption. The Kano abattoir, which is located in the metropolis Wambai quarters, is one of the state’s primary meat processing facilities, from which raw meat products are processed and supplied across the state’s 44 Local Government Areas, as well as neighboring states and countries The abattoir in Kano is almost 60 years old [3]. Kano abattoir was built in 1963 by Sir Ahmadu Ibrahim Bello the late premier of Northern Nigeria. At the time of the abattoir construction, butchery was not considered to be a serious business; however, it had state-of-the-art facilities at that time. But because of the cultural and religious practices the machines installed were never put to use. Later, when the demand for meat increased there was tremendous pressure exerted on this abattoir which lacked the facilities of modern slaughter house such as mechanical slaughtering and cold storage etc. Demand was voiced for an alternative slaughterhouse. The first governor of Kano State Audu Bako attempted to shift the abattoir to another location with better facilities but the butchers refused to relocate to the facility due to ignorance of the long-term benefits. As a result the Kano abattoir still functions without modern slaughtering facilities [4]. An effort was made to evaluate the sanitary conditions of the Kano slaughterhouse [5]. The investigation aimed to assess the hygiene and sanitary conditions prevailing in the abattoir. The study indicated the condition of the slaughterhouse to be very poor. Due to the heavy load of slaughtering and the non-adoption of modern technology the condition of the slaughterhouse has become very filthy (figure 1).  Due to its highly nutritive nature carcass is prone to microbial infection if not processed properly, which lead to deterioration in meat quality, and even can cause food poisoning. Few samples that were collected from the abattoir site for microbial analysis indicated the presence of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella, Salmonella typhii and Streptococcus pyogenes. Among the microbes isolated, Staphylococcus aureus had the highest percentage of occurrence of (27%) while Proteus mirabilis had the least percentage of occurrence of (3%).   There is an urgent need for the modernization of the Kano abattoir. Drastic changes had happened in the last 50 years and demand for meat has increased many folds. Without adopting modern methods it is very difficult for slaughterhouses to keep quality standards. A few slaughterhouses were recently closed by the Government due to the unhygienic environment in which they operate [6]. The financial implication because of eating contaminated food is a huge and serious health concern. The outbreak of certain infectious diseases such as cholera, brucellosis, bovine tuberculosis, and other parasitic worms can be directly linked with contaminated meat consumption. It is high time to initiate a serious discussion with all the stakeholders to highlight the importance of providing good quality meat for the consumers. References: Food and Beverages – Protein Ingredients Market. https://tinyurl.com/ycktmbtt Akinfenwa G. Risking contaminated meals over unsanitary abattoirs, poor meat processing. The Guardian 2022, 13 February. https://tinyurl.com/2j5azs77 Ngbokai RP. Kano abattoir in dire need of modern facilities. Daily Trust 2019, 09 Jan. https://tinyurl.com/29yv637w Ngbokai RP. State of 58-Year-Old Kano abattoir. Daily Trust 2021, 21 March. https://tinyurl.com/2p9mfvk6 Ali Z S. Assessment of operational facilities and sanitary practices in a slaughter house in Kano, Nigeria. B.Sc. Dissertation submitted to Skyline University Nigeria, 2022. Aliyu A. Edo Govt shuts 3 more abattoirs over unhygienic environment. Vanguard 2018, October 11. https://tinyurl.com/yc3496ph   Dr. Sanjoy Kumar Pal is a Professor of Biology in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD. in Animal Genetics from Indian Veterinary Research Institute, India. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Attributes of emerging retail formats towards commercial marketing mix

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Introduction – Changing the Retail Format More and more brands and products are being launched every day. The end-to-end shopping experience is changing. Almost every step of the process, from the moment the idea for a product is conceived, until the moment it lands in the hands of a consumer will evolve in the next 10 years, and continue to do so. To more deeply explore these omni channel insights, modern and diversified distribution network connecting supply, demand and delivery that helps retailers and brands increase sales by expanding product assortments, promoting products on the channels that perform, and enabling rapid, on-time customer delivery. Emerging Retailing Format *Malls*Specialty Stores*Discount Stores*Department Stores*Departmental Stores*Multi Brand outlets*Hyper marts/Supermarkets*Convenience Stores 1. The ‘Product’ Mix – Every organization has a product mix that is made up of product lines. The variety of products that a company produces, or that a retailer stocks is known as ‘product line’. The product mix is the set of all the products offered for sale by a company. The basic components of product mix are:(i) Services (ii) Packaging (iii) Brand (iv) Product Item (v) Product line 2. The ‘Price’ Mix – Price has always been one of the most important variables in retail buying decision. It is the factor which makes or mars a retail organization. It is also the easiest and quickest element to change. The components of price mix are:(i) Organizational objectives (ii) Competition (iii) Cost and profit(iv) Credit terms (v) Discount (vi) Pricing options(vii) Fixed and variable costs (viii) Pricing options(ix) Pricing policies 3. The ‘Place’ Mix – The retailer should keep in mind the fact that his ‘product’ should be available near the place of consumption so that the consumers can easily buy it. If the brand preferred by the consumer is not easily available at a convenient location, he may buy some other brand in the same product category. Following are the components of a retail price mix:(i) Distribution channels (ii) Intermediary (iii) Distance Factor(iv) Inventory Level (v) Transportation (vi) Warehousing and Storage 4. The ‘Promotion’ Mix – After deciding upon the budget, retailer should determine the appropriate promotional mix – a combination of advertising, public relations, personal selling and sales promotion. These various promotional issues:(i) Cost of the method (ii) Its reach (iii) Degree of flexibility(iv) Credibility (v) Control over media Practices and Habitual Customs of Respondents in RetailingInnovative retail marketing and consumer’s changing lifestyle have changed their needs and choices, today’s consumers seek more updated information before they make their purchases; therefore retailer can get success by good marketing and right information. Conclusion The conclusion derived from the analysis of the collected secondary information published in various sources such as journals, official government websites, text and books related on retailing sector. Most of the organized retailers in and around the world are harping on quality, service, convenience, satisfaction and assured benefits to lure shoppers into the store. Retailers should create value for the consumer and must decide suitable vehicle to deliver desired consumer value. No doubt that retail format is one of the vehicles to deliver value proposition and also it helps to position the store in the mind of target shoppers. Probably in a growing market no one finds difficulty in pulling customer into store but that may not be sufficient to operate profitably. Retailers need to find out what matches consumer requirement and offer better than competition. Retailers certainly need to be innovative in designing the value proposition and deciding the format to deliver that to the consumer. It is not all about deciding the format but all about serving the consumer better, faster and at less cost. Retailers can use their store as an indicator of what they stand for and what value they offer. Retailers have to out think consumer in providing service and value. References 1. S.Jaideep, “Retail Scenario of India: An Overview”, http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com/retailing/retail-scenario-of-india-an-overview/487342. Anasua Chakraborty, “Emerging sectors/trends in Indian retailing”, http://info.shine.com/industry/retail/7.html3. http://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/2203/indian-retail-industry-its-growth-challenges-and-opportunities?page=44. Report on Indian Retail Industry, Indian Brand Equity Foundation, www.ibef.org, May 2018, pp-65. Technopak Advisors private limited, BCG, Indian Brand Equity Foundation, www.ibef.org, May 2018, pp-86. Coopers, Price water house, Technopak, Indian Brand Equity Foundation, www.ibef.org, May 2018, pp-177. Sunil Jindal, Managing Director, SRS Value Bazaar (SRS Group), www.indianretailer.com/article/whats-hot/trends/Indian-retail-industry—Challenges-and-Opportunities.a4070/8. Vidushi Handa and Navneet Grover, “Retail Sector in India: Issues and Challenges”, International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol.2, Issue – 5, May 2012, pp-2449. https://www.insightssuccess.in/challenges-retail-industry-is-facing-in-india10. https://www.ibef.org/industry/retail-india/showcase Dr. Senthil Kumar, is an Associate Professor of Finance and Business Management in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD. in Business Management from Bharathiar University, India. You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Library Collaboration

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In this 21st century, effective collaboration is no longer an option for libraries but certainly a necessity. The world around libraries is changing rapidly (Pinfield, Cox, & Rutter, 2017) Nowadays, universities are facing financial cutbacks, pressures for accountability, and changing nature of the library users which always lead to increasing client expectations particularly around the student experience (Hickman, 2017). Rapidly changing technologies, in areas such as social media and mobile technologies, are impacting on how, where, and when students and faculty access library services. More fundamentally, the services university libraries have traditionally provided can be seen as under threat. As such, libraries must join hands to connect together to provide all the necessary information for their users as postulated by Rangathan. Collaboration by libraries can help to avoid duplication of effort and provide efficiency savings, streamline work processes and free up time for more value added activities. It can also increase the profile, visibility, credibility, and influence of the library and library staff internally and externally. On occasions, library staff learn new skills and behaviors during collaboration work and these can subsequently be applied to the individual’s work in his/her own department or institution. From a user perspective, internal collaboration by the library can help to provide a more joined up service delivery, with a single user interface to different services or a reduction in the number of times data input is required. Involvement by users in the collaborative process can help to identify new and enhanced services that are relevant to users’ needs and more user friendly, with university staff and students often becoming more familiar with library services through involvement in the process. External collaboration in particular can help to provide a wider range of services than the partners could provide individually. Library collaboration can accomplish one or more of the below mutually beneficial objectives1. Cooperate in the exchange of information relating to the activities in the current trend of librarianship;2. Library Users of each Institution can visit the other to participate in Library Tour, Excursions and other activities to promote international friendship and cooperation between the two parties.3. Provide Reference Services through email, online chat, or telephone and if possibleanswer within 24 hours of receipt.4. Exchange of scholarly published articles from printed and electronic materials.5. Collaborate in organizing local or international conference6. Invitation to attend any conferences hosted by either institution.7. Conduct cultural projects, a mutually agreed in writing between the parties prior to commencement of the activity Challenges of Collaboration Atkinson (2018) in his own classical thinking enumerated some challenges which he noted that for a collaboration to be successful there will be a number of barriers and constraints to overcome. There can be significant differences in culture and working practice between the participants. Achieving the necessary cultural change can take time. Some staff may be resistant to change and not see the benefits of collaboration, there can be a real or perceived loss of professional or institutional identity, and staff may be uncomfortable or uncertain working outside their normal professional boundaries and comfort zones and feel isolated from their normal working colleagues. Staff involved in the collaboration may not have sufficient autonomy in allocating their time and effort, and, if they retain some of their normal responsibilities, there may be competing priorities. He further identified that, at a department or institution level, there may be difficulties associated with participants having different strategic goals, structures and priorities, with consequent difficulties in establishing a common approach or specification acceptable to all. It can be difficult to maintain the balance between protecting the policies and priorities of the participants while leveraging the opportunities that come from shared approaches. For example, there may be a need to give up local control of systems and services. Without this, there may be limits to the opportunities for effective collaboration and implementation of new initiatives. In Skyline University Nigeria, we believed that no any library can stand on its own. As such, we strived to link up with all the academic libraries in our midst and beyond so as to create a viable library collaboration. Sequel to this, Skyline University Nigeria Library has signed an MOU with Yusuf Maitama Sule University Library, Kano, Federal University Dutse Library, Jigawa State and recently Sule Lamido University Library, Kafin Hausa, Jigawa State. The purpose of the MOU is to establish friendship, cooperation in research, culture and to support quality library services for both the two parties. References Atkinson, J. (Ed.) (2018). Collaboration and the academic library: Internal and external, local and regional, national and international. Oxford: Chandos Publishing [CrossRef]Hickman, B. (2017). University libraries need to start putting the student first. Guardian Retrieved from: https://www.theguardian.com/higher-education-network/2017/aug/03/university-libraries-need-to-start-putting-the-student-firstParsons, R. (2016). SCONUL shared services: A toolkit for library collaboration. London: SCONUL Retrieved from: https://www.sconul.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/1611%20Toolkit_for_Library_Collaboration.pdfPinfield, S., Cox, A. M., & Rutter, S. (2017). Mapping the future of academic libraries: A report for SCONUL. London: SCONUL Retrieved from: https://sconul.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/SCONUL%20Report%20Mapping%20the%20Future%20of%20Academic%20Libraries.pdfSkyline University Nigeria (2018) MOU Draft of Skyline University Nigeria Library.Universities UK (2015). Efficiency, effectiveness and value for money. London: Universities UK [CrossRef] Retrieved from: https://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/policy-and-analysis/reports/Documents/2015/efficiency-effectiveness-value-for-money.pdf Mr. Musa Mohammed, is the Assistant Librarian, Skyline University Nigeria. He has his MSc Information Management from Leeddeckett University, UK.  You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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A Brief overview of Programmeming Languages and their relevance to the IT industry

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Introduction Nowadays computer Programmeming languages can be used to communicate with another computer in a language that it can understand. There are varieties of computer Programmeming languages that Programmemers can use to interact with a computer, just as there are a variety of human-based languages. Classes and functions are used in Programmeming languages to manage commands. Programmeming instructs a computer to carry out these directions continuously, saving people from having to perform the same operation repeatedly. Instead, the computer Programme can complete it precisely and automatically. How significant is the Programmeming language to students? For young kids, understanding the code is crucial. Unquestionably, one of the most crucial talents to learn for both the present and future generations is coding. Programmeming helps young pupils acquire problem-solving abilities, including the capacity to address a dilemma both logically and imaginatively. What benefits do learning Programmeming languages offer? Coding can aid in our comprehension of technology. Coding improves one’s ability to solve problems. Coding is a useful tool for visualizing data and can enhance creativity. The language of coding is universal. There is a community of Programmemers. Coding can enhance professional opportunities. How would Programmeming benefit society? Develop software to address simple issues Build entertainment-focused applications. Build Global Problem-Solving Solutions. Algorithms that Increase the Efficiency of Processes Data analysis and trend discovery software. Software that Allows for Automation. How does Programmeming benefit today’s generation? It teaches us to approach problems logically and come up with solutions. A toddler learns how to deconstruct challenging issues into manageable steps. Instead of trying to solve every issue at once, take things one step at a time (which is how most real-world problems are solved) https://www.nextacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/5cfe1f5771000ab86a54a221_algo1-1024×427-1.jpeg” width=”500″ height=”209″ /> How the algorithm that supports and makes the process more efficient? Many tedious operations can be simplified and more efficient with the aid of algorithms. By figuring out the most cost-effective way to ship goods around the world, an algorithm may determine the shortest path for trucks to travel and dramatically reduce logistical operating costs.The same can be said for sales processes and sorting systems, and if you learn how to code, you can help with all of these. What will occur in the absence of Programmeming? Computers could not function at all without coding. They would serve no use at all. This is because source code is a set of instructions that directs the computer’s actions. Computers are just smart pieces of metal without clear guidance since they have no free will. How Programmeming is changing the world? It has altered how we live and improved the entire world. Not only is it making daily jobs simpler, but also it is also drastically bettering commercial operations and even assisting space organizations. Why do we say Programmeming is the future? Between 2016 and 2026, the profession is predicted to experience a job growth rate of 24 percent, which is more than three times faster than the average for all occupations. There are likely to be 302,500 new positions for software developers nationwide. Conclusion It assists in the enhancement of brain activity. Our minds remain fresh via practice and learning. It has been demonstrated that intellectually demanding tasks that we have never done before can help us think more clearly. Our brains create new neural connections and enhance old ones as we practice coding and Programmeming skills. Although the outlook for Programmeming may seem bleak, there is still a lot of space for development. Future Programmeming environments will be made possible by automation, machine learning, and AI. It will open the door for future development environments with little or no coding. Reference https://www.gcu.edu/blog/engineering-technology/computer-Programmeming-importance https://www.thecoderworld.com/importance-of-Programmeming-languages/ https://www.computerscience.org/resources/computer-Programmeming-languages/ https://www.highereducationdigest.com/in-todays-world-why-is-computer-Programmeming-becoming-increasingly-important-for-students/ https://www.fdmgroup.com/blog/7-benefits-of-learning-to-code/   Dr. A. Senthil Kumar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and the current Dean of the School of Science and Information Technology (SSIT) in Skyline University Nigeria. He has completed his Ph.D. in Computer Applications from Manonmaniam Sundarnar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.  You can join the conversation on Facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on Twitter @SkylineUNigeria

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Skyline University Nigeria Received Members of Addy Basic School on Changing Gear Seminar

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Watch on YouTube! We are not just preparing students for the technologically driven world but giving them a taste of the untapped opportunities available at Skyline University Nigeria through our changing gear Programmemes. Watch Testimonials to see how SUN received members of Addy Basic School and Summerfield School on “Career opportunities in Cyber Security and Data Science” and Campus Tour.  

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