…drives discourse on the future of education and the role artificial intelligence has begun to play.
The Association of Private Educators of Nigeria (APEN) recently concluded its 13th annual conference on a high note, with a focus on the future of education and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in learning and innovation. Under the theme “Future Fusion: Artificial Intelligence in Learning and Innovation,” the two-day conference brought together educational leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss the latest trends and developments in education, and to explore how AI can be used to improve teaching and learning outcomes for all students.
In her remarks, Mrs Lai Koiki, Chairman of APEN, highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in preparing for the future of education. She said, “This conference has illuminated the fact that whether we are esteemed school owners, educators, administrators, sponsors, or exhibitors, we must continue to offer each other mutual support in navigating the ever-evolving educational terrain. Only through collective effort can we adequately prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead”.
The need for collaboration between stakeholders was further endorsed by Mrs Folasade Adefisayo, Former Commissioner for Education, Lagos State, who stated, “This is a time when collaboration amongst schools should take the forefront. A Collaborative structure is most ideal”.
The conference featured a variety of keynote speakers and panellists who shared their expertise on a range of topics related to AI and education. The highlights of the conference included discussions on the significant impact AI has on education and how its use will continue to grow in the coming years; how AI can be used to create new and innovative learning experiences; and how AI can ensure personalized learning aligned to the needs of individual students for better outcomes.
Mrs Bolanle Adewole, Chairperson, APEN Conference, stated, “Schools cannot afford to fail; they have the responsibility of shaping the future. Artificial Intelligence is a necessary compass that navigates the crossroads between efficient teaching and functional learning. APEN is at the forefront of helping schools embrace it whilst being mindful of its ethical considerations”.
In addition to the keynote speech and panel discussions, the conference featured several workshops and exhibits that allowed participants to learn more about AI and how to use it in their classrooms. Speakers cautioned that AI is a tool, and like any tool, it can be used for good or for bad, stressing the importance of using AI responsibly and ethically in education.
The conference concluded with a call to action urging participants to continue to learn and innovate in order to prepare for the future of education. Attendees were encouraged to be bold and visionary in their thinking and be willing to experiment with new technologies. They were also encouraged to collaborate with each other to ensure all students receive access to high-quality education, regardless of background or circumstances.
The recently concluded conference stands as a testament to APEN’s unwavering commitment to championing private education and nurturing a diverse network of private schools. Its mission is to elevate the quality provided by schools, thereby making a meaningful contribution to Nigeria’s educational landscape. APEN works to achieve its mission by advocating for policies relevant to its schools, implementing efficient systems to significantly reduce the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, promoting open discussions, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders in the public and private sectors to bring about desired changes in the younger generations.
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[L – R] Members of APEN Board of Trustees – Mrs Ronke Adeyemi; Mrs Tokunbo Edun; Mrs Funke Fowler Amba; Mrs Lai Koiki; Dr Femi Ogunsanya; Mrs Adegbola; and Mrs Bolanle Adewole at the 2023 edition of its annual conference held in Lagos, Nigeria.
