Chinedu Okafor
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, has emphasized the need for Artificial Intelligence to serve humanity and strengthen education rather than diminish human creativity, critical thinking , and ethical responsibility.
Professor Ogunwole gave the charge at the 3rd International Conference of the Faculty of Education, FUOYE, themed “Reinventing Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities, Challenges, and Global Imperatives,” where he noted that although emerging technologies are redefining learning, knowledge creation, and societal development, education must remain human-centred in order to sustain meaningful progress and national development.
Addressing participants, Prof. Ogunwole who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor ( Administration), Prof. Bolanle Tajudeen Oopola, described the conference theme as timely and thought-provoking, noting that artificial intelligence and emerging digital technologies are rapidly transforming societies, economies, and educational systems across the world.
He observed that the traditional model of teaching where the teacher was regarded as the sole custodian of knowledge had evolved into a more dynamic and globally connected learning system driven by innovation and instant access to information.
Professor Ogunwole, however, cautioned that despite the enormous opportunities technology presents, issues relating to ethics, digital inequality, academic integrity, data privacy, and the future of human interaction in education must not be ignored. He stressed that universities must continue to serve as centres of critical inquiry, innovation, and national development capable of addressing societal challenges through impactful research and intellectual engagement.
The Vice-Chancellor further urged participants to move beyond theoretical discussions by developing practical solutions capable of improving educational practice, policy implementation, teacher preparation, and learning outcomes.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the University administration towards promoting quality education, impactful research, innovation, and community development.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education, Associate Professor Sunday Adeniran, said the conference was organised to critically examine the changing realities in global education occassioned by the rise of Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies.
According to him, the rapid transformation in communication, research, governance, healthcare, and learning environments demands a rethinking of curriculum delivery, teacher preparation, educational leadership, digital literacy, and assessment practices.
He warned that continuing to teach present-day students with outdated methods could leave them unprepared for the realities of the modern world.
Associate Professor Adeniran maintained that educators occupy a strategic position in shaping society, describing teachers and researchers as moulders of minds and custodians of the future. He therefore challenged participants to engage deeply in discussions capable of generating practical recommendations that would positively influence educational policies and improve learning outcomes across Nigeria and beyond.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Amos Olusola Ogunjobi, described the conference as a globally relevant intellectual gathering designed to interrogate the impact of Artificial Intelligence on contemporary education systems.
Dr. Ogunjobi explained that the carefully designed four-day programme reflected the depth and richness of conversations surrounding educational transformation in the digital age, adding that the conference also provided an opportunity to celebrate distinguished individuals who had contributed immensely to education, leadership, public service, and national development.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), appreciated the organisers for recognising individuals and institutions committed to advancing education and national development.
Professor Anosike noted that NiMet had continued to support educational institutions through curriculum support, climate workshops, meteorological training, and access to climate data for research and learning. He added that the recognition would further inspire the agency to strengthen collaborations aimed at nurturing future researchers, innovators, and scientists in Nigeria.
Highlights of the opening ceremony included the presentation of awards to notable personalities for their outstanding contributions to education and national development. Among the recipients were Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, Emeritus Professor Peter A. Okebukola, Professor Charles Anosike, Dr Olufemi Ajayi, Mr Olufemi Akindele, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, Dr Jummai Umaru-Ajijola, Engr. Micheal Dare Ale, and Dr Austin Ibikunle.
The event also featured colourful cultural dance performances and aerobatic displays by students of the Department of Human Kinetics, adding glamour and excitement to the intellectually stimulating gathering attended by scholars from different parts of the country.
