APEN Plans Homegrown AI Model for Nigerian Classrooms
Funmi Ogundare The Association of Private Educators in Nigeria (APEN) has unveiled plans to develop a contextualised Artificial Intelligence (AI) model tailored to Nigeria’s socio-cultural realities and educational needs, as
The Association of Private Educators in Nigeria (APEN) has announced its plans to create a customized Artificial Intelligence (AI) model specifically designed for the Nigerian educational system. Over 300 delegates have already signed up for the association's upcoming 16th annual conference, which will take place on November 2 and 3 at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The conference, themed "Human First: Leading with Purpose in the Age of AI," aims to ensure that AI adoption in Nigerian classrooms remains true to local values, cultural identity, and ethical standards while providing learners with the skills necessary for global competition.
Mrs. Bolanle Adewole, Chairperson of the Planning Committee, warned against excessive reliance on foreign AI models that might produce educational content without reflecting Nigeria's realities. APEN is exploring the creation of its own AI engine to provide schools with tools and resources relevant to the country's educational environment.
Adewole emphasized the potential of AI to enhance and support education by promoting innovation, sustainability, and efficiency, but cautioned against unrestricted adoption of the technology without locally developed models that reflect Nigerian experiences. The conference is expected to attract educational stakeholders from 14 states across Nigeria and parts of East Africa, with more than 300 delegates confirmed attendance weeks before the event.
APEN's Board of Trustees member, Mrs. Olufunke Fowler-Amba, stressed the importance of maintaining Nigerian children's cultural identity while equipping them with the competencies required in the global marketplace. Meanwhile, Mrs. Lai Koiki, Founding Chairman of APEN, highlighted the potential of AI to reduce teachers' workload and improve lesson planning and student assessment.
The conference will feature specialized breakout sessions for school owners, educational leaders, classroom teachers, and parents to provide guidance on implementing human-centred AI practices in schools.
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