Elijah Chibueze Odii, a Nigerian doctoral graduate of Fudan University's Department of Environmental Science and Engineering (Class of 2016, Environmental Management), recently addressed the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in his capacity as President of the Global Organization of African Academic Doctors (OAAD). He delivered a keynote speech at a special session hosted by the Ant Rural Innovation Initiative, titled "AI-Empowered Rural Revitalization."

The conference opened on July 17 in Shanghai. The President of the People's Republic of China called for practicing true multilateralism, advancing international cooperation on AI, and bridging the digital divide facing Global South countries, so that digital technologies can benefit all nations and contribute to balanced global development and to shared prosperity. These commitments provide high-level strategic guidance for the overseas deployment of AI technologies, international cooperation in agricultural development, and cross-border rural industry connectivity.

That afternoon, the Ant Rural Innovation Initiative hosted a special session titled "AI-Empowered Rural Revitalization." Dr. Elijah Chibueze Odii delivered a keynote speech at the event. As the only representative of an international cooperation organization invited, he attended with fellow members from five African countries. He also officially launched the China-Africa Belt and Road International Rural Revitalization Alliance Co-Development Plan (CABRIRRA), marking a new phase in the overseas rollout of China's AI-driven rural revitalization model.

Odii has spent more than a decade in China. He now oversees a network of over 3,000 doctoral professionals across more than 50 African countries. In his view, Africa's vast infrastructure and rural development needs could complement China's comprehensive industrial system and AI strengths.

"I chose Fudan for my studies. I was drawn to the university itself, but what also mattered was its location — Shanghai, a city that has long served as China's window to the world. My years here have convinced me that the Fudan name carries weight. It opened doors to the frontiers of academic research and brought me together with outstanding peers from all over the world.

Next year marks the 75th anniversary of Fudan's international education program. As an international graduate of this century-old institution, I feel deeply honored and proud. I would like to extend my warmest wishes to Fudan — may it continue to embrace the world with openness and inclusiveness, and nurture more talents who will bridge China and the world and shape the future."

Source: Fudan University