The Open Law Innovation Network, in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), recently concluded a successful National Debate Competition on Artificial Intelligence and Law.
This groundbreaking event brought together 17 NYSC Legal Aid Community Development Service (CDS) groups from various states across Nigeria to engage in thought-provoking debates about the intersection of AI and legal matters. The competition culminated with the final round held on October 5, 2024.
Over the course of three rounds, the participating Corps lawyers tackled critical topics such as the regulation of artificial intelligence, the legality of using publicly available information to train large language models, and the use of AI in decision-making by public bodies. Each round, held on September 21, September 28, and October 5 respectively, showcased the intellectual prowess and unity of NYSC Legal Aid CDS members nationwide.
A distinguished panel of legal professionals and AI experts served as judges for the competition. They commended the participants for their deep understanding of both the legal and technical aspects of artificial intelligence. “These young lawyers have demonstrated remarkable insight into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI,” noted one of the judges. “Nigeria’s future legal professionals are well-equipped to lead the way in this rapidly evolving field.”
The top three teams in the competition were:
1. First Place: FCT, awarded ₦500,000
2. Second Place: Kwara State, awarded ₦300,000
3. Third Place: Kano State, awarded ₦200,000
The prize money was divided equally between the CDS groups for the activities of the CDS groups and the individual team representatives. In addition, the best male and female speakers were each awarded ₦250,000 for their outstanding performances.
The award ceremony for the winning FCT team was held at the Shuaibu Ibrahim Conference Hall in the NYSC Headquarters, Abuja. In attendance were representatives from NYSC leadership, including the Director-General, who was ably represented, the NYSC FCT Coordinator, Mrs. Winifred Shokpeka, as well as Directors and Deputy Directors from NYSC. The Director-General praised the Corps lawyers for their dedication and thanked the Open Law Innovation Network for their partnership in organizing this impactful event. The FCT Coordinator also commended the FCT Legal Aid CDS team for consistently upholding the high standards of NYSC FCT.
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This competition exemplifies the shared commitment of the Open Law Innovation Network and NYSC to advancing legal education and preparing lawyers to tackle the new challenges facing the legal profession in the age of AI. Plans are already underway for future editions of the competition to further explore the dynamic relationship between law and technology.
For more information, please contact the Open Law Innovation Network at openlawng@gmail.com.
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