The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI) training program aimed at equipping 6,000 senior secondary school teachers across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The initiative, organized by the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), seeks to integrate AI into the education system, enhancing teaching methods and preparing educators to equip students with skills for a technology-driven future.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, described the program as a milestone in the nation’s commitment to modernizing education.
“The world is undergoing a technological revolution, and AI is at its core. It is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality, transforming industries, economies, and societies. As educators, we must embrace this evolution and ensure our education sector is not left behind,” he said.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that AI integration into teaching will enhance learning experiences, personalize education, and develop students’ critical thinking skills. He also unveiled the Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education, a guiding framework approved by the National Council on Education to ensure consistency and measurable improvement in Nigeria’s education sector.
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmed, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to equipping students with 21st-century skills. Represented by Dr. Clara Ujam, Special Assistant on Technical Matters, she highlighted the AI training as a key component of ongoing education reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“The world is moving rapidly towards a digital future, and Nigeria must not be left behind. The introduction of AI into education will improve teaching methodologies and learning experiences, ensuring students are well-prepared for global opportunities,” she stated.
Prof. Ahmed urged teachers to fully embrace the training, as their expertise will have a direct impact on students, ensuring they acquire essential digital and AI skills.
Executive Secretary of NSSEC, Dr. Iyela Ajayi, described the launch of the Developed Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education and the AI training program as a pivotal moment in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda for education.
“Education is not just a tool for individual advancement but the foundation of a prosperous and equitable society. The senior secondary level plays a crucial role in shaping young minds for higher education, employment, and lifelong skills,” he said.
Dr. Ajayi highlighted that the virtual AI training, sponsored by Google Research and supported by Data Science Nigeria and Olabisi Onabanjo University, consists of five modules spread over five weeks. The program is designed to enhance AI teaching skills among educators nationwide.
Additionally, NSSEC, tasked with repositioning senior secondary education, will continue to provide support through teacher capacity-building initiatives and instructional resources to ensure quality education across Nigeria.
