The Faculty of Education at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has called for the equitable deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to bridge learning gaps in Nigeria, warning that poor implementation could deepen existing educational inequalities.
The call was made at the faculty’s third Annual Lecture Series held on Wednesday at the Jelili Omotola Hall, where academics, policymakers and private sector leaders examined how AI can improve teaching and learning in resource-constrained environments.
The event also marked the final official engagement of the outgoing Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Simeon Adebayo Oladipo, who formally handed over leadership to the incoming dean, Professor Joseph Olayinka Awoyifa.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Professor Afolabi Lesi said educators who fail to embrace AI risk becoming irrelevant as students increasingly integrate the technology into their learning.
He noted that while advanced economies are deploying adaptive and personalised learning systems, many Nigerian schools continue to struggle with overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure and unreliable electricity.
According to him, AI should be viewed as a tool that complements teaching rather than replaces educators, adding that carefully designed digital solutions could help expand access to quality education if implemented with inclusion at the centre.
The lecture focused on the growing need to ensure that technological innovation narrows, rather than widens, the educational divide between well-resourced schools and underserved communities.
Beyond policy discussions, the event highlighted the human realities behind the statistics. A dramatic performance by Zainab Samsadeen portrayed the daily challenges faced by students and teachers in underfunded schools, drawing attention to shortages of learning materials, poor infrastructure and the resilience of educators working under difficult conditions.
The performance was followed by an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions to the Faculty of Education. Distinguished lecturers, staff members and recently retired professors were honoured for their commitment to teaching, research and service to the university.
Speaking during the event, Jubril Ibrahim Dr, chief executive officer of Resort Securities, and the Executive Director and Vice President for Government and External Affairs at Cavista Holdings, stressed the importance of collaboration between universities, government and the private sector in driving digital transformation in education.
They argued that although AI has the potential to personalise instruction, expand access to learning resources and improve educational outcomes, technology cannot replace the mentorship, empathy and ethical guidance provided by teachers.
The speakers urged stakeholders to ensure that AI adoption is guided by transparency, inclusion and purpose so that technological advancement benefits all learners, particularly those in underserved communities.
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