The Nigerian government has initiated an Artificial Intelligence training program for 6,000 selected senior secondary school teachers nationwide. The National Senior Secondary Education Commission is spearheading this effort to integrate AI into the educational system, aiming to enhance teaching practices and equip educators with the necessary skills to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
During the launch event in Abuja, the Minister of Education emphasized the importance of embracing AI in education to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The program is designed to enhance learning experiences, personalize education, and foster critical thinking skills among students, preparing them for a future where AI literacy is as essential as traditional literacy skills.
The Minister of State for Education highlighted the significance of incorporating AI into Nigeria’s education system to improve teaching methods and ensure that students are well-prepared for global opportunities. The government places a strong emphasis on education reforms to equip Nigerian students with 21st-century skills, with AI training being a crucial component of these efforts.
The training program, developed in collaboration with stakeholders and endorsed by the National Council on Education, aims to establish high-quality standards for senior secondary education in Nigeria. Through this program, teachers will gain the skills needed to deliver innovative and technologically-driven education, ultimately benefiting students and preparing them for a digitally advanced world.
Overall, the initiative signifies a commitment to excellence, equity, and relevance in senior secondary education, aligning with the nation’s pursuit of educational renewal and advancement. The training program, supported by Google Research, Data Science Nigeria, and Olabisi Onabanjo University, is structured into five modules and will span five weeks to enhance AI pedagogical skills among senior secondary school teachers nationwide.