UNESCO, tech firms partner to train teachers, students in AI

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, on Wednesday, began training Nigerian teachers and students in the use of artificial intelligence and robotics engineering.

The two-day programme, conducted in collaboration with Infinix Nigeria and Google, took place at the United Nations office in Abuja.

Addressing the participants, UNESCO’s Head in Abuja, Abdourahamane Diallo, emphasised the importance of promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education at all levels.

Diallo highlighted that the STEM programme would help developing countries build a critical mass of scientists, researchers, and engineers necessary to address urgent environmental and health challenges, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.

He said, “As essential as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are, it has been observed that most countries in sub-Saharan Africa lack adequate teaching tools, have weak courses and curricula in basic computer sciences, and lack well-equipped laboratories.

“Where laboratories are available, they are often unused due to lack of power supply and trained teachers. Artificial intelligence, along with other advancing technologies like robotics and cloud computing, can be applied for effective STEM training.

“This training for Nigeria is one of UNESCO’s capacity-strengthening initiatives, with INFINIX supporting this programme alongside Google. I understand that this is the first part of the training, and the second part, incorporating 3D printing, will follow.”

Infinix Nigeria’s Public Relations Manager, Oluwayemisi Ode, expressed her perspective, stating that the two-day project aims to ignite curiosity and creativity in Nigerian youth through hands-on experiences with robotics and AI-powered applications.

According to her, these innovations are shaping the future workforce across the globe.

She said, “We believe that by nurturing skills in robotics and artificial intelligence, we are investing in a more resilient, innovative, and self-sustaining Nigeria.

“Our commitment to Nigeria goes beyond our devices; it includes ensuring that youth possess the digital skills required to succeed in a competitive global market.

“We are thrilled to provide students with experiences in machine learning, robotics, and AI-based applications, under the guidance of some of the best minds in the industry. This journey starts here but will expand nationwide, empowering youth in cities, towns, and rural areas alike.”

Earlier in his speech, the Secretary General of the UNESCO National Commission in Nigeria, Dr Olagunju Idowu, praised the initiative.
Idowu, represented by the Secretary of Nature and Science Sector, Frances Ezejiofor, noted that the training was timely and crucial, given the importance of artificial intelligence in daily life.

“Allow me to say that AI plays a significant role, from personalised recommendations on online platforms to voice assistants simplifying everyday tasks.

“It is well known that in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of AI in areas such as telemedicine and remote work. In schools, smart classrooms can function even in a teacher’s absence. In hospitals, banks, and the entertainment industry, the use of AI is indispensable.

“At this point, it is essential to recognise artificial intelligence and robotics as remarkable gifts from technology creators. I therefore encourage the younger generation to appreciate the significance of AI and its applications in robotics,” he urged.

The Director of Technology and Science Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Muyibat Olodo, also stressed that STEM’s role has become critical in global development, and Africa must keep pace with this trend.

Olodo, represented by her deputy director, Dr Stella Uhuegbu, expressed confidence that the workshop would equip teachers and students with up-to-date STEM skills for learning and exploring complex ecosystems.

“As a developing nation, we must develop a strategy to harness all the technological potential of our youth if we are to grow technologically and meet global best practices in an ever-evolving world.

“Let me remind you that, as teachers, you play a crucial role in shaping the minds of our future generations. Your dedication and passion for teaching are vital in inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which form the bedrock of sustainable development.”