Nsukka: Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), has advised scholars to exercise caution in their application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Ortuanya made this statement in Nsukka, Enugu State, during the 41st National Conference of Social Studies Educationists Association of Nigeria (SOSAN), highlighting that while AI has merits, it also presents demerits.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the theme of the conference was ‘Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Transformative Social Studies in the 21st Century.’ Ortuanya emphasized that AI has the potential to revolutionize all sectors of life, but it requires cautious application due to its potential adverse effects. He underscored that AI tools could transform every sector of the economy, especially education, but warned against their negative impacts.
The Vice-Chancellor, represented by Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, described the conference topic as timely, considering AI’s essential role in 21st-century teaching and learning. Ortuanya, who assumed office on August 10 as the 16th substantive VC of UNN, acknowledged the significant contributions of social studies educationists to Nigeria’s economy and education development, urging the association to continue its efforts.
Prof. Abdulraheem Yusuf, the National President of SOSAN, remarked that AI has permeated various facets of the economy, notably education. He noted that AI not only enhances the engagement in social studies teaching but also transforms students into critical thinkers, problem solvers, and responsible citizens in the digital world. Yusuf expressed optimism that the conference’s outcomes would empower educators and prepare students for 21st-century challenges.
In his keynote, Prof. Christian Ezeibe, Dean of the Department of Students Affairs at UNN, noted that wisely applied AI could transform teaching, learning, and other life aspects. He highlighted AI’s impact across sectors like medicine, manufacturing, finance, and agriculture, asserting that AI should amplify human potential rather than replace it. Ezeibe advocated for leveraging AI for innovation, transformation, equity, justice, and fostering informed citizenship.
Earlier, Prof. Okechukwu Nwaubani, who led the Local Organising Committee, remarked on the vision of SOSAN to build a strong and stable Nigeria through social studies education. He emphasized the association’s commitment to enhancing the visibility and relevance of social studies education in Nigeria, resonating with the conference’s theme on leveraging AI for transformative social studies education.