By Karen James
Awka, Anambra State – The Faculty of Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, in collaboration with Fontis Aid Foundation, successfully concluded the 2024 Hybrid Conference on Thursday, May 2. The event, which took place at the ASUU-NAU Secretariat, saw experts and participants from around the world emphasizing the need for technology integration in education.
Titled “Use of Emerging Technologies in African Education and Development,” the conference focused on strategies to drive educational advancement through technology adoption. Prof. Ogechi Anyanwu from Eastern Kentucky University, USA, delivered the keynote address, titled “Greasing the wheels of human progress,” stressing the transformative potential of emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, and biotechnology in Africa’s socio-economic development.
Representing the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the Chief of Staff, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting human capital development initiatives and highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate emerging technologies across education and health sectors in the state.
The University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, commended the conference’s theme and emphasized the university’s dedication to embracing technological advancements in education.
Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Vivian Nwogbo, highlighted the significance of incorporating emerging technologies in classrooms to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. She emphasized the conference’s role in fostering intellectual engagement, networking, and celebrating research and scholarship in education.
Dr. Chioma Ikeanyionwu, the Founder of Fontis Aid Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of emerging technologies in bridging the gap between theory and practice in education. She urged educators and innovators to harness the power of technology to create inclusive learning environments.
Prof. Bellarmine Azumah from Murray State University, USA, called for synergy in the application of technology among educational leaders. She highlighted the challenges hindering the rapid integration of technology in Africa and called for policy reforms and infrastructure development.
Prof. Mukaosolu Mgbemena from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University emphasized the importance of technological applications in ensuring quality education and lifelong learning for all. She called for policy reforms, teacher training, infrastructural development, curriculum redesigning, and public-private partnerships to adapt to emerging technologies.
Former Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu, decried the prevalence of bullying, including cyberbullying among secondary school students. He underscored the need to deploy technologies in classrooms for effective teaching and learning.
Prof. Amaka Okeke, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, described the conference theme as crucial. She expressed optimism that the resolutions reached would inspire the necessary change in the teaching and learning process.
The conference also awarded special excellence honors to individuals such as Governor Charles Soludo, Lady Uju Dike, Rt. Hon. Sir Somtochukwu Udeze, High Chief Oluchukwu Ikeanyionwu, Chief Chukwudiegwu Umebunyuo, Dr. Onyeka Nzekwesi, Chief Michael Amedu, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Dr. Chike Ezenduka, and Engr. Adindu Donatus Ogbu for their exceptional leadership and contributions.
The event, anchored by Prof. Williams Emeka Obiozor, concluded on an optimistic note, with resolutions aimed at bringing transformative change to the teaching and learning process. The Africana International Troupe dance group led by Prof. Oby Okonkwor also performed at the event, adding a cultural touch to the conference.
