The Faculty of Education of Federal University Oye-Ekiti has honoured prominent industrialist and philanthropist, Engineer Micheal Oludare Ale, alongside other distinguished Nigerians during the opening ceremony of its 3rd International Conference focused on the future of education in the age of artificial intelligence.
The conference, themed “Reinventing Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities, Challenges and Global Imperatives,” commenced on Monday at the Fasina Conference Centre with scholars, researchers, educators, policymakers and professionals converging to examine the changing realities of global education.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to individuals recognised for outstanding contributions to leadership, education, public service, science, administration, industry and humanitarian development.
Speaking after receiving his award, Engineer Micheal Oludare Ale called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s education sector through the adoption of technology-driven learning systems and stronger digital infrastructure.
Ale, who disclosed that he is currently pursuing further studies at the university, described the recognition as a great honour, noting that continuous learning remains essential in a rapidly changing world driven by technology and innovation.
According to him, many professionals and academics are returning to school to improve their knowledge and adapt to emerging global realities, especially in the area of sustainable development and artificial intelligence.
“It is a great honour that my university is honouring me as a student. Many of my friends who are professors with over 20 years’ experience are still advancing their knowledge because learning never stops,” he said.
The industrialist explained that his organisation has continued to create opportunities for students through industrial training, mentorship and technology-based development programmes.
He added that his company remains open to students seeking practical exposure in Information Technology, Industrial Training and other innovation-driven fields capable of preparing them for future careers.
Ale further revealed plans to expand initiatives focused on Artificial Intelligence through Global Engineering for Innovative Developments (GIG), stressing that the future of education and industry would largely depend on digital skills and AI knowledge.
“One of the major things we are doing now is around AI. We are already preparing programmes and campaigns for students who want to advance their knowledge in artificial intelligence because that is the future,” he stated.
He maintained that education systems must move beyond traditional teaching methods to embrace innovation, digital literacy, research and practical skills capable of preparing students for future workplaces.
The industrialist further noted that while artificial intelligence presents challenges, it also offers enormous opportunities to improve access to knowledge, enhance research and promote creativity among students.
Also honoured at the conference was the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Bolanle Tajudeen Opoola, for his leadership and commitment to institutional development.
Other award recipients included Dr. Olufemi Ajayi and Professor Charles Anosike.
In his opening address, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Amos Olusola Ogunjobi, described the conference as timely and globally relevant.
He said the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence continues to reshape teaching, learning and assessment processes worldwide, making it necessary for experts and policymakers to collectively chart a sustainable future for education.
Ogunjobi explained that the four-day conference would feature keynote addresses, plenary discussions and interactive sessions aimed at generating practical solutions to educational challenges in the AI era.
He also appealed for support towards the construction of an ultramodern ICT centre for the Faculty of Education to strengthen technology-based learning and research.
The conference is expected to continue with keynote presentations and plenary engagements by local and international scholars, including experts joining physically and virtually from within and outside Nigeria.
