Kaduna State Govt. Pledges Commitment to AI in Education
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
The Kaduna State government has pledged it’s commitment to prioritize policies that balances innovation with human development and ensuring that the future of education is inclusive.
Professor Muhammad Sani Bello, the State Commissioner for Education, made the commitment at a press conference to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Education with the theme “Protecting Human Agency During a Wave of Automation”.
He noted that though AI presents certain challenges and risks which is the most concerns expressed by people, but it also offers a lot of benefits.
“AI is a powerful tool that contributes to the growth of human capital, which remains a central priority for the current administration. By embracing AI in education, the government has created opportunities for both students and educators to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge in various fields.
“The integration of AI in education ensures that learners are better prepared for the future workforce, where digital literacy and adaptability to new technologies are paramount.
“AI also fosters innovation, as it enables students to think critically and creatively. It empowers teachers by streamlining administrative tasks and offering new pedagogical methods. In the long term, AI integration promotes the development of a skilled, future-ready workforce capable of navigating and contributing to a rapidly evolving technological world.” The Commissioner stated.
He said this year’s theme; challenged the state to embrace technological advancements while safeguarding human engagement and autonomy in educational settings.
“The state government is committed to fostering a balanced approach that integrates AI with human capacity, ensuring both progress and inclusivity in the educational sector.
“As we continue to embrace the potential of AI in education, let us remain committed to protecting human agency and ensuring that technology serves to uplift and empower all learners.
“The state government will continue to prioritize policies that balance innovation with human development, ensuring that the future of education is one of inclusivity, progress, and shared responsibility. He added.
According to him, the state government has made significant strides in integrating AI technologies into the education sector, saying “these initiatives are designed to improve access to quality education, enhance learning outcomes, and equip both teachers and students with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly automated world.
“This giant stride earned the state an award as the second runner up on ICT Human Capital Development at the 12th National Council on Communication and Digital Economy in 2024.
“In a bid to enhance the technological capabilities of schools, the state government and Partners has invested in the procurement and distribution of 800 desktop, 135 laptop computers and 800 tablets to educational institutions across the state.
“This initiative ensures that students and teachers have access to the digital tools necessary to engage with modern educational resources and AI-powered applications.
“Recognizing the importance of connectivity in the digital age, the government has prioritized providing reliable internet access to schools through wireless routers and ViaSat internet ensuring that students and teachers can take full advantage of online learning platforms, AI resources, and digital collaborations.
“The state government has also developed AI-driven simulations designed to enhance teaching and learning.
“These simulations offer interactive and immersive experiences for students and teachers, allowing for dynamic, real-world applications of concepts in various subjects.
Use of AI by Teachers to Develop Lesson Content: Teachers are being trained to leverage AI technologies to create customized lesson plans and educational content. AI tools help educators personalize learning experiences, ensuring that lessons are tailored to the unique needs of individual students, thereby improving learning outcomes.”
The Commissioner further said “Students are encouraged to use AI-based tools to solve assignments and explore various problem-solving methods. AI assists in enhancing their critical thinking and analytical skills, helping students find innovative solutions to academic challenges.
“Teachers must play an active role in guiding students through AI-based learning, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging creativity.
“Additionally, AI should be used to enhance human potential, not replace it, by automating repetitive tasks and providing personalized learning experiences while leaving room for human interaction, collaboration, and mentorship.
He therefore commended donor partners in the State for their support and the successful commemoration of the IDE, adding “this would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of our esteemed partners such as ROOSCP, AGILE, PLANE, UNICEF, and SCI. The state government sincerely appreciates the contributions of various stakeholders, including educational institutions, technology providers, NGOs, and other collaborators, who have worked together to ensure the success of this event.”
