The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced an Artificial Intelligence training programme designed to equip 6,000 senior secondary school teachers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Organized by the National Senior Secondary Education Commission, the initiative aims to integrate AI into the education system, enhance teaching methods, and empower educators with the skills needed to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
At the launch of the training programme and the unveiling of the Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, described the initiative as a significant step in equipping teachers with the skills needed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving digital age.
“The world is experiencing a technological revolution, with Artificial Intelligence at its core. AI is no longer a concept of the future but a present reality, reshaping industries, economies, and societies,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for educators to adapt to these changes, ensuring that the education sector keeps pace with global advancements.
“Integrating AI into teaching provides a unique opportunity to enrich learning experiences, personalize education, and cultivate critical thinking skills in students. Our goal is to equip them for careers in a technology-driven world, where AI literacy will be as essential as reading and writing.”
The document, developed by NSSEC in collaboration with stakeholders and approved by the National Council on Education, will serve as a guiding framework to uphold high-quality standards in senior secondary education across Nigeria.
“It is our blueprint for ensuring consistency, accountability, and measurable improvement in the education sector,” the Minister stated.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmed, emphasized the urgency of embracing digital transformation, stressing that Nigeria must keep pace with the rapidly evolving global landscape.
She highlighted that integrating AI into the education system will enhance both teaching methodologies and learning experiences, equipping students with the skills needed to seize global opportunities.
Represented by her Special Assistant on Technical Matters, Dr. Clara Ujam, the Minister emphasized that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the Ministry of Education prioritizes reforms aimed at equipping Nigerian students with 21st-century skills.
“The AI in Pedagogy training is a key part of these reforms, ensuring that teachers gain the expertise needed to drive innovative, technology-driven education,” she stated.
Addressing the teachers, she underscored their central role in the transformation of the education sector.
“Your knowledge and expertise from this training will create a ripple effect, shaping students for a future where digital and AI skills are essential. I encourage you to seize this opportunity and apply your learning to enhance classroom experiences.”
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of NSSEC, Dr. Iyela Ajayi, described the unveiling of the Developed Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education and the launch of the Google-sponsored AI in Pedagogy training for 6,000 senior secondary school teachers as a significant milestone in advancing educational excellence.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s education system.
“As we embark on this journey of national renewal under the visionary leadership of Mr President Bola Tinubu, we must recognise that education is not merely a tool for individual advancement, but the cornerstone of a prosperous and equitable society.
“Today’s event reflects our shared commitment to excellence, equity, and relevance in senior secondary education. As we all know, education is the backbone of any progressive society, and the senior secondary level plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our youth, equipping them for higher education, employment, and lifelong skills.”
The virtual training programme, sponsored by Google Research and supported by Data Science Nigeria and Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, is designed to enhance the AI pedagogical skills of senior secondary school teachers across all 36 states and the FCT. The training consists of five modules and will run for five weeks.
Meanwhile, the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), tasked with repositioning senior secondary education, plays a key role in teacher capacity building, provision of instructional resources, and other educational interventions. As part of its mandate, NSSEC has developed the Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education in Nigeria to ensure quality and consistency across the sector.
