The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi at the ceremony.
By Anietie Akpan
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, has urged academics to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, stating that the technology has the potential to revolutionize the sector.
Prof. Obi stated this during the inaugural annual conference of the College of Education, themed “The Human and Artificial Intelligence Partnership: Navigating the Future of Education, Work, and Society”.
In a release from the Public Relations Unlt of the University on Friday, She praised the College of Education for hosting the conference, describing it as a significant milestone that demonstrates its commitment to innovative ideas and collaboration.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the conference will explore the intersection of human capabilities and AI, discussing ways to harness this partnership for future advancements in education, work, and society.
She said by hosting the Conference, the College of Education has showcased it’s dedication to fostering critical and problem- solving in an increasing AI driven world.
The Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Prof. Chika C. Uchendu, admonished participants to take advantage of the conference to ask questions, attempt answers, and share ideas on the various areas of confrontation between humanity and AI.
She assured that the conference will contribute to local and international academic debates on the subject matter and define the contributions of education to global development.
The Provost of the College of Education, Prof. Anagbogu German Effa, highlighted the opportunities presented by AI in personalizing learning, bridging gaps, and empowering teachers and learners.
He noted that AI is transforming industries, creating new job roles, and demanding new skills and adaptability, but emphasized that human empathy, values, and sense of purpose must guide the design, deployment, and engagement with AI systems.
The Keynote Speaker, Prof. Eme Joseph, emphasized that the future classroom will be a dynamic, hybrid ecosystem where human intelligence and AI converge to transform the world.
He noted that the intersection of human and artificial intelligence will redefine the learning experience, driving innovation and growth.
Prof. Joseph highlighted the importance of embracing hybrid models that enable educators to create engaging, personalized learning experiences that prepare students for a rapidly evolving world.
He stressed that AI’s capabilities, such as learning and memory, will augment human potential, creating a more efficient and effective education system.
The Director of ICT, University of Calabar, Dr. Idongesit Efaemiode Eteng, emphasized the importance of AI learning, urging all participants to leverage on the AI trend as education has become digital globally.
The conference also featured the presentation of awards of excellence to deserving participants, including the Honorable Commissioner for Education, Sen. Prof Stephen Odey, amongst others.
