The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education (FUE), Zaria, Prof. Yahaya Bunkure, has called for the widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning tools and stronger collaboration among academia, industry, government and civil society to drive national development.
Bunkure made the call on Tuesday while declaring open the maiden National Conference of the Faculty of Specialized Education in Zaria.
The conference, themed “Leveraging Technology and Artificial Intelligence for Transformation: Connecting Educators, Researchers, Professionals and Policymakers in the Digital Age,” brought together stakeholders to explore the role of emerging technologies in transforming education.
According to the vice-chancellor, the conference reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and research geared towards addressing emerging challenges in the education sector.
He said the theme aligns with the institution’s strategic plan, which prioritizes digital transformation and the adoption of innovative teaching methods to improve learning outcomes.
Bunkure stressed that the future of higher education lies in learner-centered teaching supported by digital technologies that promote critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and lifelong learning.
Describing digital transformation as inevitable, he urged governments and educational institutions to invest more in digital infrastructure, digital literacy, Artificial Intelligence, and innovative teaching approaches to prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving knowledge-based economy.
He also emphasized that technology should be used to promote inclusive education by expanding access to quality learning for persons with disabilities and students from disadvantaged communities.
The vice-chancellor further advocated the adoption of the Quadruple Helix Model, which encourages collaboration among universities, government, industry and civil society to ensure that research and innovation address real societal challenges.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Specialized Education, Prof. Halima Audi, said the conference was organized to examine how technology and AI could revolutionize teaching, learning and educational research while promoting inclusive education.
She urged educators to embrace digital tools to enhance learning experiences, improve access to quality education and advance sustainable educational development.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, described the conference theme as timely and pledged to recommend a special intervention package to strengthen the Faculty of Specialized Education.
Represented by the Director-General of the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI), Prof. Abduljalal Danbaba, Abbas also called for greater investment in ICT infrastructure, reliable electricity and broadband connectivity to accelerate digital transformation across Nigeria’s educational institutions.
