Wed Oct 16 22:07:21 UTC 2024: ## Nigerian Education Must Embrace Tech to Stay Competitive, Experts Say at Inaugural Global Study Conference
**Lagos, Nigeria** – The inaugural Global Study Conference 2024, hosted by SI-Global, brought together education experts, policymakers, and international schools in Lagos to discuss the urgent need for Nigeria to modernize its education system and embrace emerging technologies.
The conference, themed “Innovating Education for the Future,” focused on the changing global landscape of education and the opportunities presented by technological advancements, particularly in areas like blockchain, fintech, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
**Curriculum Review Key to Global Competitiveness**
Sola Oni, Dean of the Faculty of the School of Management and Social Sciences at Pan Atlantic University, emphasized the importance of curriculum review to ensure Nigerian students acquire the global skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century. “The world is changing rapidly,” she said. “We need to move beyond traditional courses and embrace emerging technologies to equip our youth for the future.”
Oni highlighted the growing demand for courses like blockchain and fintech, underscoring the need for universities to continually update their curriculum and incorporate practical experiences into learning.
**International Collaboration and Opportunities**
The conference showcased the growing international collaboration in education, with representatives from Canada and the UK highlighting opportunities for Nigerian students. The Canadian Trade Commission to Nigeria, Dindembolo-Zana Kuyena, emphasized the strong bilateral trade relationship between both countries, particularly in education. He noted that over 50% of international students from Africa in Canada are from Nigeria, and Canadian universities are actively working with Nigerian institutions to train and upskill their human resources.
Michael Lawson, Regional Recruitment Director at Heriot-Watt University, underscored the significant demand for skilled workers in the UK, especially in sectors like healthcare, retail, and hospitality. He highlighted the potential for Nigerian graduates with tech skills to find rewarding opportunities in the UK job market.
**Focus on Tech and AI**
The conference emphasized the transformative potential of technology in education, particularly AI. Experts stressed that AI will not replace teachers but rather enhance their capabilities and create new opportunities for educators.
The event aimed to bridge the information gap for Nigerians by providing insights into emerging educational trends and opportunities.
**Call to Action**
The Global Study Conference 2024 serves as a call to action for Nigerian policymakers and educators to embrace innovation, embrace technological advancements, and prioritize curriculum reform to ensure the country’s youth are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the global marketplace.
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