By Akanji Olowolodu, Bauchi
A Civil Society Organisation known as Council for Affirmative Action (COFAA) has declared its support for the enhanced digitalization of tertiary institution education in Nigeria through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The initiative is aimed at putting an end to the frequent disruptions in academic activities caused by incessant strike actions by the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) in the country.
COFAA in a statement by Mbami Iliya Sabka, Executive Director stated that, “As a Council, we believe that the introduction of AI into the education sector will revolutionize the way teaching and learning is conducted in tertiary institutions across the country.”
He opined that the use of AI-powered technologies such as smart classrooms, virtual and augmented reality, intelligent tutoring systems, and adaptive learning systems will provide a more engaging and personalized learning experience for students.
Mbami Iliya added that with the adoption of AI-powered technologies, students will have access to high-quality educational materials and resources that are tailored to their individual learning needs stressing that, “this will enable them to learn at their own pace and in their own time, thereby improving their academic performance and reducing the need for physical classrooms.”
The introduction of AI-powered technologies will also reduce the reliance on human lecturers, who are often the cause of the frequent disruptions in academic activities in the country.
He expressed optimism that with AI, students will have access to on-demand tutoring and support, which will help them to overcome any learning challenges they may encounter.
COFAA believes that the adoption of AI in tertiary institutions in Nigeria will not only improve the quality of education but also create new opportunities for research and innovation in the country which will in turn enhance the country’s human capital development and contribute to the growth of the economy.
“We, therefore, call on the government, private sector, and other stakeholders in the education sector to support the enhanced digitalization of tertiary institution education in Nigeria through the use of AI-powered technologies,” he stated.
According to him,”This will put an end to the frequent disruptions in academic activities caused by the ASUU and ensure that Nigerian students receive a world-class education that is tailored to their individual needs.”
