The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Google, other top tech firms to train 3,150 teachers on AI

    Google, other top tech firms to train 3,150 teachers on AI

    A total of 3,150 secondary school teachers across five states are set to receive training in artificial intelligence (AI) under a new educational initiative launched by NerdzFactory Company in partnership with the United Kingdom’s Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind.

    The programme, titled: “Experience AI,” aims to build foundational AI skills for teachers in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Ekiti states, reaching more than 157,000 students by 2026.

     Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Founding Partner at NerdzFactory Company, Ade Olowojoba, said the programme would equip teachers to inspire innovation among students and build their confidence to use AI effectively.

    Olowojoba, who was represented by the company’s Business and Operations Lead, Motolani Folabi, explained that the training would be delivered through a blended approach, with approximately 70 per cent conducted online via live sessions and digital resources, while the remaining 30 per cent would involve in-person workshops to provide hands-on experience, especially in areas with limited internet access.

    He noted that the training will run until December 2026 in alignment with Nigeria’s academic calendar, focusing on public schools in rural, low-income, and underserved communities through collaboration with state education ministries.

    “At NerdzFactory, we believe AI education should be accessible to all. Partnering with the Raspberry Pi Foundation supports our mission to open up digital skills to Nigerian youth. Experience AI empowers a generation to innovate and solve real community problems. Today marks more than just the launch of an initiative; it represents a bold step into the future, one where access to cutting-edge knowledge and skills is no longer a privilege for a few but a right for all.

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    “We are deeply honoured to be working alongside two global giants, the Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind, to bring this transformative programme to life. Together, we are set to train 3,150 secondary school teachers and reach over 157,000 students across Nigeria with foundational AI education. That is not just a number; it is the spark that can light up thousands of lives, classrooms, and communities.

    “At NerdzFactory, we are driven by one core belief: that young people, regardless of their background or location, should be equipped to thrive in the digital age. The Experience AI programme is about more than learning how artificial intelligence works; it is about building the confidence to dream, the tools to create, and the vision to lead,” he said.

    Global Partnerships Manager at the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Katherine Leadbetter, said the programme would equip teachers with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to teach AI effectively and inspire students to understand and apply the technology meaningfully.

    “Experience AI is an educational programme offering cutting-edge resources on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Co-developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind, it is aligned with UNESCO’s AI competency framework for students and supports educators of all experience levels in an increasingly AI-driven world to inform and inspire the next generation.

  • Teen girl wins top prize at AI African essay contest 

    Teen girl wins top prize at AI African essay contest 

    Opabiyi Josephine, a pupil of Federal College of Education Abeokuta, Model Secondary School, has emerged overall winner of the 2025 TeensThink International Essay Competition.

    She beat over 100 participants from across four African countries with her powerful ideas on how artificial intelligence can work in harmony with humanity.

    The 16-year-old clinched the top prize with a score of 82 points at the grand finale held in Lagos.

    Her essay, praised for its originality, clarity, and ethical depth, stood out among entries from teenagers in Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya, and Cameroon.

    Trailing closely behind were Eniola Kananfo of Ota Total Academy, Ota, who placed second with 81 points, and Oghenerugba Akpabor-Okoro of Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary, Ikorodu, who scored 80 points to secure third place.

    The competition, now in its fifth year, asked participants to respond to the theme: “Humanity and Artificial Intelligence: How Can a Blend of the Two Make the World a Better Place – A Teen’s Perspective.”

    The winners received brand-new laptops, books, rechargeable fans, Scrabble games, and cash prizes.

    Their essays will also be published on reputable educational platforms to inspire wider conversations on ethics, empathy, and the role of AI in shaping the future.

    The Founder and convener of TeensThink, David Olesin, described the competition as a platform to unlock young people’s voices and creativity.

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    “TeensThink is about preparing teenagers for leadership in a tech-driven world. We believe that empowering them with knowledge and a voice today will shape the ethical innovators of tomorrow,” he said.

    One of the high points of the finale was the official launch of QuestAIKids, a free AI learning platform for African children.

    It was unveiled by keynote speaker, Dr. Celestine Achi, CEO of Cihan Media Communications and a leading advocate for AI education.

    “The future is being written now. And our young people must not only read it, they must write it,” Dr. Achi told the audience.

    “Artificial intelligence must be shaped by human values, and who better to start than the generation who will live longest with its impact?”

    The panel of judges, which included education consultants and scholars, assessed submissions for originality, relevance, creativity, clarity, and depth. Out of over 100 entries, 16 finalists were shortlisted and invited to the live grand finale.

    The event also featured artistic performances by Anyangbemisola the Drummer Girl, saxophonist Demilade Adepegba, and rapper Young T, blending creativity with critical thought in what many described as a celebration of Africa’s emerging generation of thinkers and creators.

    Chairman of the TeensThink Advisory Committee, Dr. Adeboye Adeyemi, said the competition showcased how teenagers are not just dreaming of the future but actively engaging with it. “These are not future leaders, they are today’s thinkers, building tomorrow’s solutions,” he said.

    As the curtain fell on the 2025 edition, TeensThink announced plans to expand its reach through collaborations with education ministries, innovation hubs, and mentorship initiatives across Africa.

    The competition was proudly supported by SLOT, STL Trustees, Nigerian Breweries, Coronation, Tulcan Energy, MTN, and MultiChoice.

  • Eight countries with efficient visa pathways for students

    Eight countries with efficient visa pathways for students

    Applying to study abroad is often slowed down by visa processing delays. However, some countries have introduced streamlined, student-friendly systems that speed up processing times and reduce uncertainty for international students.

    Here are the eight countries that are known for providing efficient visa pathways for students.

    Canada

    Canada offers a faster route called the “Student Direct Stream.” It is open to applicants from specific countries and allows digital submissions and tracking. The entire process is clearly outlined on Canada’s official portal, which helps students avoid confusion and delays.

    Germany

    Germany’s visa application process is straightforward once students receive admission from a recognised university. The steps are clearly defined, and the system is well-managed. Public universities in Germany also have low or no tuition fees, which adds to their appeal.

    Australia

    Through “ImmiAccount,” Australia makes student visa applications more manageable. Students upload documents online and track their progress. Clear guidance is available throughout the process, and updates are regularly communicated on the platform.

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    New Zealand

    In New Zealand, once a student is accepted by an approved education provider, the visa process can begin online. The country’s immigration website provides all necessary information, and the process is designed to be completed without in-person visits.

    Ireland

    Ireland allows students who have secured a place in a full-time recognised course to apply for a long-stay student visa. The application is submitted online, and updates are sent to applicants, helping them stay informed without repeated follow-ups.

    Singapore

    Students heading to Singapore complete their visa steps through the “SOLAR/ICA” system. With an official admission letter, students follow a digital process, including detailed instructions to complete the student’s pass process.

    Netherlands

    The Netherlands stands out because the university takes responsibility for the visa process. After admission, institutions apply on behalf of the student. This approach removes a major burden and allows students to focus on preparations for relocation.

    Norway

    In Norway, students with admission into accredited institutions can apply for a study permit online. The process is outlined on the official portal, and communication between students and the Directorate of Immigration is consistent and clear.

  • OPay partners OOU in N1.2b 10-year scholarship scheme

    OPay partners OOU in N1.2b 10-year scholarship scheme

    One of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, OPay, has announced Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) as the ninth beneficiary of its landmark N1.2 billion 10-year scholarship scheme.

    This shows OPay’s unwavering commitment to education and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

    Over the next 10 years, 20 students of the institution will receive N300,000 every year to cover their tuition and other academic-related expenses through the scholarship scheme. OPay is thus empowering students to focus on their studies, develop their potential, and pursue their dreams without financial constraints.

    Speaking at a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing event, the Chief Public Affairs Officer at OPay, Mr. Justin Zhang, highlighted the need to empower Nigerian youths through education.

    He said: “Olabisi Onabanjo University is the ninth university we have partnered with this year to give scholarships to 20 students of the institution every year. Thank you for the warm welcome. We believe this initiative will allow talented students to focus on their education.”

    OOU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, expressed gratitude on behalf of the institution.

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    He said: “We have had several students take gap years to come up with funds to continue their education. With this scholarship initiative, some will be able to continue their education without any hassle.

    “OPay’s investment in this institution is not misplaced as Olabisi Onabanjo University has produced several notable and influential persons across various industries in Nigeria. Thank you, OPay.”

    As OPay continues to expand its scholarship initiative to more universities across Nigeria, students from various regions can look forward to benefiting from this life-changing initiative.

    The scholarship scheme reaffirms OPay’s dedication to unlocking multiple potentials and creating a brighter future for Nigerian youths.

  • Senator Goje’s bill on establishment of the Federal University of Science, Deba scales second reading

    Senator Goje’s bill on establishment of the Federal University of Science, Deba scales second reading

    A bill on the establishment of the Federal University of Science Deba, Gombe State, sponsored by Senator Mohammed Danjuma Goje, has passed second reading during the Senate plenary on Tuesday.

    Leading the debate on the bill, Senator Goje, a former Governor of Gombe State, stressed the university’s importance to the socio-economic development of Gombe State, the North East geopolitical zone and the country at large. 

    ” The proposed University of Science will provide the knowledge and expertise to drive modern scientific innovations in Nigeria. As outlined in the bill, the university’s objectives include demonstrating scientific knowledge, skills, attitude and experience, especially in their professional discipline, with a global mindset that uses critical thinking and problem-solving approaches.

    ” There is a strong justification that Nigeria needs more universities, specifically specialised universities for its necessary development among the community of nations. That is, if the country wants to compete with other developed nations economically, scientifically and technologically, it needs additional higher institutions of learning, especially the type this bill seeks to establish,” he said.

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    Contributing to the bill, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi) threw his weight behind the establishment of the university, saying that when established, it would go a long way in producing the needed manpower for the country’s development. 

    Describing Senator Goje as the architect of modern Gombe, he said the university will benefit not only the people of Gombe State but also the entire North East geopolitical zone and, by extension, the country. 

    Summing up the debate on the bill, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I Jibrin, who presided over the plenary, described it as people-oriented and, hence, should be supported by all. 

    Thereafter, he referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND under the chairmanship of Senator Muntari Dandutse for further legislative actions

  • EU awards postgraduate scholarships to 104 Nigerians

    EU awards postgraduate scholarships to 104 Nigerians

    One hundred and four young Nigerians have been awarded the European Union (EU)-funded postgraduate scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic session.

    The scholarships, which are under the EU’s Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Plus programme, would enable the young Nigerians to learn a targeted set of interdisciplinary skills that set them up for careers as practitioners, researchers, or decision-makers in their chosen fields.

    Nigeria is the leading country in Africa for Erasmus participation, and among the global top five alongside South Asian countries and Mexico.

    Speaking during this year’s Erasmus Plus Pre-Departure Orientation event in Abuja, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, noted that the awardees went through a very competitive, global application process.

    He said, “Over 15,000 applications were made, and today, you stand among the selected few. You should be proud of yourselves, and so are we.

    “This year, so far, 104 Nigerian students are starting their Erasmus Masters in September, out of which 83 of them, almost 80 percent have secured fully funded Erasmus scholarships.”

    The envoy noted that since 2014, over 800 Nigerians have been awarded Erasmus scholarships, with over 600 in just the last four years.

    “This is a testament to the brilliance, determination, and potential of Nigerian youth as well as the strength of our partnership,” he said.

    Addressing the awardees on what they should expect in the next two years of the programme, he said, “Erasmus Plus is not your typical study programme. It is a unique, transformative journey. Over the next 12 to 24 months, you will live, study and grow across several countries, experiencing different cultures, educational systems, and ways of life. Most of you will be in EU Member States, but the programmes are getting more international.

    “Erasmus Mundus is open to universities worldwide, and some of you will be starting in Türkiye or the UK, while others of you will spend a later part at other countries further afield. There is also a great mix of universities involved – from classic academic-focused universities to technical universities or polytechnics with a more vocational orientation.

    “At the end of your studies, you will not only hold an internationally recognised master’s degree from some of the world’s top universities, but you will also carry with you a wealth of global experiences, lifelong friendships and a broader perspective on the world.”

    Highlighting the impact of education in empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and shaping nations, the envoy added: “This is why the European Union continues to invest in education in Nigeria, not just through Erasmus, but also through initiatives supporting basic education, girls’ education, and educational access in areas affected by insecurity, particularly in the North-West.

    “It also reflects our commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, a country of immense potential, vibrant talents, and bright young leaders like all of you here today.”

    Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the Erasmus scholarship programme as far more than an academic opportunity.

    He said, “It is a call to serve as Ambassadors of knowledge, culture, and cooperation.”

    Olawande, who was represented by Technical Adviser to the Minister of Youth Development, Ebiho Agun, commended the EU for its continued investment in human capital and for recognising that young people are the drivers of change, innovation, and sustainable development.

    The minister said, “You are about to embark on a journey that will equip you with world-class education, expose you to diverse perspectives, and broaden your vision of what is possible, not only for yourselves, but for our nation.

    “As you travel to different parts of Europe, remember that you carry with you the spirit of Nigeria, its energy, resilience, and hope. Your presence will serve as a bridge between continents, connecting cultures and deepening mutual understanding between Nigeria and the European Union.”

    Stephen Agboola, a recipient of the Erasmus Masters in Research and Innovation in Higher Education, said: “This is a broader opportunity for me to practically engage in the intricate dynamics of higher education because the ways of education is changing in the global stage, and I see it as a unique opportunity to come on board to acquire knowledge, particularly in the area of innovation and technology.

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    “This programme will give me the opportunity to leverage, key in, and learn. I see it as the next step for me in my career. With this, I’m able to rethink innovation, especially in Nigeria. I thank the European Union for the scholarship. I look forward to a great experience.”

    Another awardee, Louisa Asor, expressed excitement about the opportunity to study cybersecurity in France through the programme.

    She said, “This means a lot to me, especially since cybersecurity is a field I am very passionate about. This opportunity will help me achieve my goals and will help me to come out of my shell and be in a space that I am not used to; to immerse myself in a different culture, to be open-minded, and to meet people from everywhere walks of life. Thank you, European Union.”

    The event also featured the Study in Europe Fair, where future applicants explored the many educational opportunities available across the 27 EU Member States.

  • SEC, Quidax Initiate Digital Assets Education for Nigerian Financial Institutions

    SEC, Quidax Initiate Digital Assets Education for Nigerian Financial Institutions

    The Nigerian financial landscape is witnessing a significant step towards digital asset integration, as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in partnership with leading digital asset exchange Quidax, recently concluded a pivotal two-day event. This initiative aimed to equip Nigerian finance professionals with the essential knowledge and tools to navigate the evolving ecosystem of digital assets.

    Video https://youtu.be/Lxwk9XEv-Aw

    The event brought together decision-makers from commercial banks, asset management companies, pension fund administrators, and securities dealers. This focused gathering is part of a broader vision aimed at driving the institutional adoption of digital assets within the Nigerian financial system through education and proper regulation.

    SEC’s Mandate: Fostering Regulation and Market Development

    Abdulrasheed Dan Abu, FinTech and Innovation lead at the Securities and Exchange Commission, underscored the initiative’s alignment with the commission’s statutory responsibilities. He noted that the SEC’s mandate extends beyond just regulation to actively driving overall development and growth in the capital markets. “Development includes advocacy, educating market participants on what is happening in the ecosystem,” he explained.

    This educational event builds upon a series of significant regulatory milestones in Nigeria’s digital finance landscape. The Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, formally classifies cryptocurrencies and other virtual assets as securities, placing them squarely under the SEC’s regulatory purview. This move aligns with global trends seen in the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation in the European Union, which provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto-assets.

    Furthermore, the SEC’s issuance of rules for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) mirrors the recommendations set forth by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in its guidance for a risk-based approach to virtual assets and virtual asset service providers, aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. While the licensing process is currently undergoing due diligence, the foundational regulatory intent remains clear.

    Dan Abu also highlighted the significant potential of the digital asset ecosystem to contribute to the Federal Government’s ambitious goal of a one trillion-dollar economy. “One key area is tokenization,” he said. “Assets held by AMCON and other institutions can be digitized and made liquid through the digital asset ecosystem. That creates wealth for the people and for the nation.” This aligns with discussions on the potential of blockchain technology for real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, as explored by institutions like the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) in various innovation hub projects.

    Quidax’s Vision: Driving Pan-African Adoption Through Education

    Buchi Okoro, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quidax, emphasized that the initiative is specifically aimed at driving the adoption of digital assets by educating experienced financial sector leaders. “Adoption starts with education. This session caters to people at different knowledge levels, from total beginners to those who have conducted blockchain pilots,” he stated.

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    Okoro also outlined Quidax’s ambitious Pan-African plan, noting that the exchange currently operates in nine countries with strategic plans for growth across all 54 African nations. “We’re solving African problems for Africans, and this partnership with the SEC helps us do that within regulatory guardrails,” he said, reflecting a commitment to localized solutions within global regulatory best practices, akin to the principles outlined in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement which seeks to foster economic integration across the continent.

    Industry’s Positive Response and Future Outlook

    The event’s impact was evident in the feedback from attendees. Sunday Joseph Olaniyan, Head of E-Business at Sun Trust Bank, spoke on the initiative’s significance: “There used to be this orientation that digital assets were not welcome in Nigeria. There was a time when digital assets did not have the backing of the regulators but that has clearly changed and more players have become aware that the world of finance and capital is flowing in the direction of digital assets. Events like these bring such awareness even closer to us as institutions here in Nigeria and presents us with the opportunity to not be left out of this wave of change. People like myself who have been aware of digital assets are now even more sensitized to the global trend and I sure do not want to be left behind at all.”

    This collaborative effort by the SEC and Quidax marks a crucial step in preparing Nigeria’s financial sector for the inevitable shift towards digital assets, fostering a more informed and adaptive industry.

  • Experts push for digital reforms in varsities

    Experts push for digital reforms in varsities

    Experts and stakeholders in the education sector have pushed for digital reforms in African universities. They urged African governments to invest in digital transformation in universities to tackle challenges such as poor access, outdated curricula, and weak infrastructure across the continent’s tertiary education sector.

    The made the push at the Digital Higher Education Africa (DHEA) Summit held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The two-day summit brought together policymakers, EdTech innovators, vice chancellors, and development partners to discuss actionable strategies aligned with the African Union (AU’s) Digital Education Strategy.

    With a central theme focused on “Reimagining Tertiary Education Through Technology,” the gathering served as a call to action for institutions to break away from analogue systems and embrace scalable, future-ready digital models.

    Chief Executive Officer of Argyle IT & Education, Opeyemi Ibukun, described the summit as a response to years of recurring conversations without meaningful implementation.

    “We already know the problems — limited access, outdated systems, underfunding.

    What we need now is commitment to real solutions,” he said.

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    Ibukun advocated funding models that include corporate partnerships, alumni support, and bankable proposals from universities. He also called on governments to make the adoption of digital learning management systems (LMS) a performance metric for institutions.

    Head of Education at the African Union Commission, Sophia Ashipala, decried the continent’s digital enrolment figures, which she said stood at less than 12 per cent, compared to the global average of 85 per cent.

    “COVID-19 was a rude awakening, but it also revealed possibilities. Now is the time to invest in digital infrastructure, training, and innovation that reflects Africa’s priorities,” she said.

    Ashipala further stressed the importance of curriculum reform focused on STEM, green skills, African knowledge systems, and lifelong learning. She also called for greater research investment, harmonised qualifications, and academic mobility to support Africa’s development goals.

    Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Prof. Joseph Ayodele, noted that many Nigerian universities still struggle to shift from analogue to digital due to capacity and structural challenges.

    “We must move beyond lip service. Embracing technology at all levels — from teaching to administration — will boost institutional efficiency and global competitiveness,” he added.

  • iLead Conference 2025 inspires students to embrace leadership, digital relevance

    iLead Conference 2025 inspires students to embrace leadership, digital relevance

    Secondary school students from across Lagos converged at NECA House, Ikeja recently converged for the 2025 edition of the iLead Conference, an initiative organized by Success Within International. 

    Themed: “Next-Gen Leaders: Owning Your Identity and Impacting the Digital World Positively,” the conference aimed to equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and mindset to embrace leadership early and thrive in a digitally-driven world.

    Designed specifically for teenagers, the conference addressed the evolving definition of leadership in today’s society, encouraging students to see leadership not as a future position but as a current responsibility. 

    Through a blend of keynote sessions, panel discussions, and a public speaking competition, the event offered practical guidance on identity, responsibility, technology, and the importance of self-awareness.

    Speaking to journalists at the event, Success Oyesola, Project Lead of the iLead Conference and Global Learning and Leadership Aid for Success Within International, explained that the goal was to help young people understand that leadership is less about title and more about influence and initiative. 

    She stated that young people do not need to wait until adulthood to begin making impact.

    Oyesola also called for a shift in educational priorities, noting that while core subjects such as Mathematics and English are essential, they are not sufficient for developing the kind of leadership the future requires. 

    She furthered advocated for the inclusion of soft skills and non-technical education in the curriculum, stressing that these are crucial for translating academic excellence into societal value.

    According to her, many students remain unfamiliar with the importance of soft skills such as emotional intelligence, collaboration, and effective communication, which are critical for leadership and relevance in the modern world. 

    She explained that the tendency to focus exclusively on academic subjects has created a gap in holistic education, one that must be bridged urgently.

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    Despite belonging to a generation immersed in digital advancements, Oyesola observed that many students showed little enthusiasm for technology-related subjects and careers. This, she warned, could leave a significant portion of the next generation ill-prepared for the realities of the digital economy.

    Highlighting this concern, she emphasized that many students mistakenly believe embracing technology means abandoning their interests in traditional professions. She urged educators and mentors to help students see that technology is not a replacement but a tool that can enhance any career path.

    “This is not about choosing between fashion and tech or medicine and tech,” she said. “It’s about understanding how tech can amplify whatever you choose to do. You don’t have to drop your dream to be digital.”

    The conference also featured a public speaking competition involving students from multiple schools. Anjorin Ayomikun, Head Girl of Unique Heights Junior and Senior High School, emerged as the winner. 

    Ayomikun expressed gratitude for the opportunity and described the event as deeply empowering. 

    She noted that participating in the conference reinforced her belief that young people are capable of leading meaningful change.

    “When I learned I would be speaking at the conference, I did some research and really connected with the theme,” she said. “I believe if anyone listened to what I said, they would understand that we, as young people, are not too young to lead. We are young, but we are not wrong.”

    Davina, Head Girl of Chris College School, described the conference as enlightening and impactful. 

    She praised the organizers for creating a space where students could be inspired and encouraged to view themselves as change-makers.

    “I gained a lot from today’s event, and I believe many others did too,” she said. “The speakers were powerful, and the message was clear. This event is going to help raise future leaders who can impact society in a positive way.”

    In her closing remarks, Oyesola urged stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector to consider a more progressive and inclusive curriculum that prioritizes not only academic success but also life readiness. 

    She called for the integration of digital literacy, leadership development, and practical life skills into the national education framework.

  • Researcher spotlight AI’s role in transforming autism education

    Researcher spotlight AI’s role in transforming autism education

    Renowned autism advocate and internationally published education researcher, Oyeyemi Patricia Adako, is set to deliver a keynote address on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in autism education at the upcoming Orange Ribbon Initiative Conference in Lagos, scheduled for July 15–16, 2025.

    Themed “From Awareness to Action,” the conference marks 15 years of advancing autism inclusion in Nigeria and will bring together experts, educators, and families to explore practical solutions that support children with autism.

    Adako, Executive Director of the Education for Autism Initiative (EAI), will headline the conference with a keynote titled, “Unlocking Silent Potentials: Harnessing AI to Transform Autism Education.”

    Her address will explore how AI technologies are reshaping learning experiences for autistic children by offering adaptive, inclusive, and personalised education tools.

    The Orange Ribbon Initiative, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited, is one of Africa’s leading platforms promoting autism awareness and action.

    Organisers have described Adako’s participation as a major highlight, praising her “rare blend of academic expertise, global perspective, and heartfelt commitment.”

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    A graduate of Anglia Ruskin University, UK, with a Master’s in Education, Adako specialises in curriculum development, assistive technology, and inclusive education.

    Her internationally recognised research focuses on integrating AI into learning for neurodivergent children, and her upcoming book, Smart Learning: AI Tools for Autistic Education, will be published by Cambridge Scholars Publishing, UK.

    In addition to her research and classroom impact, Adako is an influential policy advocate pushing for reforms that protect the educational rights of children with autism.

    She has trained teachers across Nigeria and abroad and led collaborative efforts for systemic change.

    “My vision is a world where every autistic child, no matter their background, has access to empowering, personalised education,” she said.

    Adako will speak alongside global experts, including Camiella Hay, a board-certified behaviour analyst from New Jersey, USA, and Lanre Duyile, President of Behaviorprise Consulting Inc., Canada.