UI Department of Science and Technology Education Hosts International Conference on AI and Educational Innovation

The Department of Science and Technology Education, Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan, has held its 2nd Biennial International Conference which attracted about 200 academics, teacher educators, researchers, postgraduate students, education practitioners, and technology experts from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the diaspora.

The theme of the Conference was: "Artificial Intelligence and Innovation in Education: EduTech Revolution,” designed to examine how Artificial Intelligence (AI) could transform teaching and learning while preserving the indispensable role of human judgement.

The Opening Ceremony drew distinguished scholars and university administrators with the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, being the Chief Host.

The Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor K. O. Kester, in his welcome address, reaffirmed the commitment of the Faculty to educational excellence and innovation, while the acting Head of the Department of Science and Technology Education, Dr. Adetunmbi L. Akinyemi, described the gathering as an opportunity to rethink teaching and learning in response to rapid technological change.

In his Keynote Address Professor I. O. Salawu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, challenged educators to embrace innovation while preserving the values that underpin quality education. 

The conference featured 21 physical plenary presentations, three virtual plenary presentations, keynote and lead paper sessions, panel discussions, and five thematic syndicate sessions, creating a robust platform for scholarly exchange on the future of education in the age of artificial intelligence.

Lead papers were presented by Professor Emmanuel Bamidele of the Department of Science and Technology Education, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife and Professor P. Blose, Acting Head of the Department of Science and Technology Education at the University of South Africa. 

Their presentations highlighted the importance of collaboration across institutions and countries in preparing education systems for the opportunities and challenges created by AI.

A pre-conference AI and Pedagogy Workshop was organized to equip primary and secondary schools teachers with practical skills for integrating AI into classroom instructions while strengthening effective pedagogical practice.

Beyond the formal sessions, the conference fostered collaboration among universities, researchers, education practitioners and policymakers, serving as an important platform for networking, exchange of ideas and building partnerships that will support future research and innovation in educational technology.