AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation The International Day of Education, observed annually on January 24, celebrates the important role of education in fostering global peace, sustainable development, and prosperity. This year’s theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” highlights the dual role of artificial intelligence as a powerful tool for enhancing education while emphasizing the need to maintain human-centered approaches. Lately, a lot of concerns have been raised about the dependency and overrelaince on AI systems and it has been stated that gradually Artificial intelligence (AI), known by some as the industrial revolution (IR) 4.0, is going to change not only the way we do things, how we relate to others, but also what we know about ourselves and this fast becoming a prophecy fulfilled. AI is the simulation of human intelligence with the use of advanced technologies while “preserving human agency” underscores the importance of ensuring that humans maintain control of learning processes and cognitive decisions. Together, the theme depicts the need for us to harness AI to empower learners and educators while safeguarding their cognitive autonomy. Truly, education in the age of AI presents both opportunities and challenges. AI-powered tools can personalize learning experiences, automate administrative tasks, and expand access to education. However, the increasing reliance on automation raises concerns about the potential erosion of critical thinking, creativity, and ethical decision-making. This International Day of Education serves as a reminder that while AI can complement human efforts, it must never replace the irreplaceable qualities of human interaction, empathy, and ingenuity. Preserving human agency ensures that education remains a transformative force rooted in human values and aspirations. To effectively integrate AI while preserving human agency, the following strategies can be adopted: Ethical AI Integration: Develop and implement AI tools that prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and fairness in education. Empowering Educators: Provide teachers with training and resources to use AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement. Personalized Learning: Use AI to adapt educational content to the unique needs and abilities of each learner, fostering inclusivity. Human-AI Collaboration: Design systems where AI supports rather than replaces human decision-making, ensuring that educators retain control over learning processes. Critical Thinking Skills: Incorporate curricula that teach students to critically evaluate AI-generated content and understand its limitations. In addition, a range of resources can support the integration of AI in education while preserving human agency: UNESCO’s AI and Education Guidelines: Frameworks and policies for the use of AI in education. AI Literacy Programs: Initiatives that teach educators and students how to effectively use and critically assess AI tools. Collaborative Platforms: Online communities where educators share best practices for using AI in classrooms. Research Publications: Studies on the impact of AI on education and strategies for maintaining human agency. Kindly click the links to read from some brilliant researchers. To commemorate this year’s International Day of Education, we have created a video that highlights the significance of “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.” This visual presentation captures insight on how AI is shaping the future of learning while retaining the essence of human involvement , the limited access to technology and how we must equip our teachers to use these innovations without losing the human touch that makes education so impactful. Click here (Add link to youtube post) to watch the video. The theme “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation” calls on all stakeholders to act thoughtfully and collaboratively. Here’s how you can contribute and also collaborate with us: Advocate: Raise awareness about the ethical use of AI in education and its potential to empower learners and educators. You can do this by sharing our post Innovate: Develop AI tools that prioritize human-centric approaches to learning and teaching. Collaborate: Partner with educators, technologists, policymakers, and AYGF to support the creation of balanced AI-driven educational systems, and drive other education initiatives. Engage: Participate in posts, forums, workshops, and discussions on AI and education to stay informed and contribute to policy development. At AYGF, we are committed to bridging education gaps. Through our BLOOM Project—Bridging Learning Opportunities for Out-of-School Minors—we aim to send 2 million children back to school. It’s a bold goal, but one we are pursuing with passion and purpose. Alongside this, we are empowering teachers with the skills they need to thrive in a world of evolving technology. Also, as we celebrate the International Day of Education, we at AYFG embrace the potential of AI to revolutionize learning while steadfastly preserving the human essence that makes education a force for good while encouraging you to do the same. Enjoyed this post? 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AYGF HOLDS BLOOM PRE-LAUNCH
In line with AYGF’s mission to ensure maximum impact for minorities and vulnerable communities, we are thrilled to announce our latest initiative: the BLOOM (Bridging Learning Opportunities for Out of School Minors) Project. According to a 2024 report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria has one of the highest rates of out-of-school children globally, with girls disproportionately affected, making up 62% of the over 20 million children lacking access to education. This represents a significant rise of over 96% from the previous estimate of 10.5 million in 2021. In response to this alarming increase, AYGF held a Pre-launch of the Bridging Learning Opportunities for Out-of-School Minors (directly addressing the core issues outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Ensuring Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all). The pre-launch was held July 4th 2024 at LEA Primary School in the Karonmajigi community, FCT Abuja and Key stakeholders, including representatives from UNESCO, FCT-UBEB, CSACEFA, and Karonmajigi community leaders graced the event. Our Executive Director, Dr Arome Salifu in his opening remark, noted that the major goal of the BLOOM Project is to get at least 2 million out-of-school children aged 5-10 back to school by 2030. He further stated that the BLOOM initiative represents AYGF’s commitment to starting small but impactful efforts in communities like Karonmajigi to create a world where every child has the opportunity to be educated. The event featured a welcome rendition and drama performance by the pupils showcasing the impact of drug abuse on young people. To inspire these students and keep education at the forefront of their minds, AYGF paid the fees for 65 at-risk students and will enrol 30 out-of-school pupils from the community into the school by September 2024. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of these children, and together we can ensure every child has a chance to BLOOM. AYGF Enrolls 30 Vulnerable, Poor Children Into Primary School In Abuja Community
AYGF EDUCATES 100 STUDENTS AT LEA 1 WUSE ZONE 2 ON SAFE PRACTICES TO PREVENT CHOLERA
Nigeria has had to grapple with an unexpected increase in Cholera cases in the last few weeks. A situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) indicates over 1000 suspected cases, across 31 states. As part of our ongoing efforts to combat the Cholera Outbreak in Nigeria, AYGF recently took the awareness campaign to LEA 1 Wuse Zone 2. The team engaged with over 100 pupils, emphasizing the critical importance of handwashing, and other ways to prevent the spread of cholera.. Handwashing with soap can significantly reduce the transmission of cholera and other infectious diseases. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective measures to prevent the spread of germs. By educating children, we are empowering the next generation to adopt healthy habits that can protect their families and communities.
AYGF AT NILE UNIVERSITY CAREER FAIR
AYGF was thrilled to be a part of the Nile University Career Fair yesterday. Our team, led by the Executive Director Dr. Arome Salifu, alongside the Senior HR Officer Ese Moweo, and Head of Programs Nelson Egbunu, had the opportunity to connect with students and discuss the work we do at AYGF in driving impact and change in the society. We were passionate about sharing information on the various thematic areas where students can get involved. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and commitment of the future generation. Opportunities to get involved with AYGF, either through volunteering or internship programs, were also presented to the students. We look forward to staying connected and supporting these young leaders as they embark on their careers.
AYGF PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO THE AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION
The train of partnership meeting moved to the Australian High Commission. Led by the Executive Director, Dr. Arome Salifu, the meeting focused on building future collaboration and partnership to tackle issues around Education. Warmly received by the Second secretary of AHC and Political and Economic Officer, Mr Calum Walker and Tosin Gbolasere, they applauded AYGF for the good work done so far in ensuring access to education for all. We look forward to a great collaboration for a sustainable future.
AYGF PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO UNESCO
The AYGF team led by the Executive Director Dr. Arome Salifu also visited the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The team was well received by Oladeji Adeyemi the National Project Officer (Education For Health and Wellbeing) The strategic meeting with UNESCO touched on the need to increase the impact in the education sector, and performance in the development space in Nigeria.
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ICT GIRLS
Empowering the Next Generation: International Day of Girls in ICT 2024 Globally, only 20% of tech jobs are held by women. This statistic highlights the significant gender disparity in the tech industry and underscores the urgent need for initiatives that encourage more girls to pursue careers in ICT (Information and Communication Technology). The 2024 International Day of Girls in ICT theme is “Leadership,” at AYGF, we embraced this theme by organizing an event to sensitize and inspire 20 young girls. The AYGF Program Officers Ifeoluwa Prince and Caroline Godwin, IT Manager Shedrach Obi, and Communications Officer Ikenna Madu with their combined expertise and enthusiasm provided a rich, engaging experience for the participants. During the event, our team shared valuable insights into the tech industry, discussed the various opportunities available, and emphasized the importance of leadership in shaping the future of ICT. The girls participated in interactive sessions designed to build their confidence and equip them with the skills to navigate and succeed in the tech world. As we celebrate the 2024 International Day of Girls in ICT, we reaffirm our dedication to empowering girls through education and leadership development. By investing in these young minds today, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech industry tomorrow.
NG-CARES Methodology Harmonization Workshop
The NG-CARES Methodology Harmonization Workshop for Third Party Monitors Consultants spanned two days. On the first day, the Third-Party Monitors (TPM) presented their findings on the Inception Report and shared their strategies for executing their projects. Representatives from the World Bank, Federal Cares Support Unit (FCSU), and Bank of Industry (BOI) provided feedback and suggested adjustments to the presentations. The projects were categorized into three result areas, each further divided into six Disbursement Link Indicators (DLIs) – DLI (1.1), (1.2), (1.3), DLI (2.1), (2.2), (2.3), DLI (3.1), (3.2), and (3.3). During the second day, the workshop focused on syndicate group discussions, where all TPMs collaborated to develop a standardized reporting template and monitoring plan. They also conducted stakeholder mapping, identifying primary, secondary, and tertiary stakeholders. Various data collection tools, beneficiary reporting templates, and other relevant aspects were addressed as part of the workshop’s objectives.
Local Fundraising
In a bid to expand its operations in Nigeria, West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) in partnership with Ford Foundation under the Changethe Game Academy program, delivered a training session for nine civil society organizations in Abuja. The training session which lasted from Monday 17 to Friday 21 July, 2023 had in attendance, Mr. Abdulrahman Abubakar and Mr. Clement Enenmoh, MPH of Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF). This course which was on Local Fundraising was aimed to equip CSOs and NGOs in Nigeria to fundraise within the country.Throughout the training, participants gained valuable insights andknowledge on effective fundraising strategies within the local context. Our Program Officer, Mr. Clement Enenmoh, MPH was recognized as the MOST OUTSTANDING male participant for the training. AYGF now stands at the dawn of a new era, armed with the right knowledge to advance her mission and make positive impacts.
World Social Justice Day
2023 Theme: Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice. Today is World Day of Social Justice! It’s a time to reflect on how we can create a more equitable and fair world for all. In 2009, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution recognizing February 20th as the World Day of Social Justice. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the importance of social justice in promoting world peace, security, and progress. The day is to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, inequality, exclusion, and social injustice. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of social justice in promoting peace and security, reducing poverty and unemployment, and achieving sustainable development. The 2023 World Day of Social Justice aims to promote global solidarity and rebuild trust in governments by working towards achieving the recommendations of Our Common Goals. The focus for this year is “ overcoming barriers and unleashing opportunities for social justice” thereby advancing towards this goal. This day presents an occasion to engage in discussions with stakeholders regarding the actions necessary to reinforce the social contract that has been undermined by the growing disparities, conflicts, and weakened institutions meant to safeguard the rights of workers.These crises notwithstanding, there exist numerous opportunities to form a coalition for social justice and encourage more investments in decent jobs, with a specific focus on the green, digital, and care industries, as well as the younger generation. Violent extremism as one of our focus, is a complex phenomenon with multiple causes, and it affects individuals and communities in different ways. However, at its core, it is an expression of injustice and a rejection of the values of tolerance, diversity, and respect for human rights. To prevent and counter violent extremism, we must address its underlying drivers, which include political and social marginalization, economic inequality, identity-based discrimination, and lack of access to education and social services. We work to address these drivers by promoting social justice and building resilience in communities. We work with local partners to empower individuals and communities to challenge extremist ideologies, promote tolerance and respect for diversity, and foster a sense of belonging and identity. We also advocate for policies that promote social justice and human rights, and support efforts to address the root causes of violent extremism. On this day, AYGF reaffirms its commitment to preventing and countering violent extremism. We believe that justice and peace are inextricably linked, and that a just society is one that is resilient to the appeal of violent extremism, discrimination,and marginalization of any kind. We amplify the theme of “ overcoming barriers and unleashing opportunities for social justice” On this World Social Justice Day, let us come together to promote social justice and create a more equitable world for all. We must continue to work towards a world where everyone can live in dignity and security, free from the threat of violence and discrimination. Join us in this vital mission!