How Nigeria can reform educational system using digital transformation – Prof Ademola
Preambles: For key players and stakeholders in the Information-Communication-Technology (ICT) and its emerging fields globally, Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a prominent figure of outstanding expertisé on the subject matter.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Prof. Ademola is a trailblazer in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Management, having presented series of position papers at international gatherings, and written/published compelling articles on wide ranging subjects. He holds the esteemed title of the first Nigerian Professor in the field, and he is recognized globally as a thought leader and influencer. His contributions to education and technology continue to shape Nigeria’s digital landscape.
In the face of the 21st-century education landscape, Nigeria grapples with critical challenges in reforming its education system. Recognizing the need for sustainable and holistic change, advocates must orchestrate a digital transformation that encompasses the entire ecosystem, from policy and pedagogy to infrastructure and community engagement.
Recently, our foremost Communication Analyst, Eddy A. Ademosu had a rare one-on-one interactive engagement with the leading Professor where he proposed strategic blueprints to address the identified challenges. His views are captured as follows:
1 Need for Visionary Leadership and Collaborative Roadmap:
a) Convene stakeholders, including educational leaders, policymakers, and the private sector, to craft a shared vision that reflects national educational goals within a digital context.
b) Develop a roadmap with clear goals, actionable steps, and measurable milestones for steering digital transformation initiatives.
2 Need for Policy Innovation and Regulatory Support:
a) Advocate for forward-thinking educational policies that encourage innovation, promote inclusivity, and support the integration of digital tools in classrooms.
b) Institute regulatory measures that facilitate technology adoption while ensuring data privacy and security for users.
3 Need for Public-Private Synergy:
a) Foster partnerships between government entities, industrial players, and non-profit organizations to amalgamate resources and expertise into education technology initiatives.
b) Encourage corporate social responsibility investments in educational digital transformation.
4 Need for Infrastructure for Connectivity and Power:
a) Advocate for essential infrastructure improvements that provide the backbone for digital initiatives, such as stable power supply, high-speed internet access, and technology-friendly learning spaces.
b) Invest in renewable energy sources and technologies compatible with Nigeria’s geographic and socioeconomic realities.
5 Need for Capacity Building for Educators:
a) Call for comprehensive training programs enabling teachers to effectively leverage technology in delivering curriculum and facilitating student engagement.
b) Introduce incentive mechanisms for teachers excelling in adapting and implementing digital education strategies.
6.Need for Redefining Curriculum with Digital Competence:
a) Press for a curriculum overhaul to integrate digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as core competencies.
b) Create accessible and relevant digital learning materials, ensuring the representation of local languages and cultural contexts.
7.Need for Ensuring Equitable Digital Access;
a) Strive to diminish the digital divide by instituting policies and programs that increase access to digital tools for underprivileged and rural communities.
b) Promote initiatives targeting the participation of marginalized groups, especially girls and students with disabilities, in the digital learning sphere.
