…Global conference highlights transformative impact of AI on education
Scholars and education leaders have called for a careful, ethical, and human-centric adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the education sector, warning that over-reliance on the technology could erode critical thinking and originality among learners.
The experts included Dr. Mythili Kolluru, Dr. Oyewole Sarumi, Prof. Olajumoke Familoni, and others. They observed that just as the COVID-19 pandemic forced a sudden shift to online learning, AI is now reshaping classrooms, assessments, and research at a disruptive pace. Concerns include potential job displacement, weakened independent thinking, and the growing risk of students outsourcing learning to machines.
The experts, who made the call at a hybrid global conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Transformation, emphasised a need to develop a framework for dealing with cybercrime and the biases of AI.
The conference was declared open by the Founder and Provost of ICLED business school, Professor Olajumoke Familoni. The conference, which had tracks in cybersecurity and AI in higher education, was attended by global speakers from the USA, the UK, Singapore, Dubai, Mexico, India , Bolivia, Nigeria, and others.
The conference also brought in industry sponsors from Axa Mansard Insurance, represented by Mr Adeoye Abodunrin and Mr Sesan Ogunyooye, Mr Mike Ewewie CEO of Cedar Yogurt Manufacturing.
While acknowledging AI’s benefits, the experts warned that its integration must be guided by transparency, inclusivity, and responsibility.
They emphasised that while AI will integrate into almost every profession, human intelligence, creativity, empathy, and problem-solving, remains irreplaceable.
Discussions highlighted several applications of AI already transforming education on customised learning,research enhancement, finance, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and academic empowerment. They added that AI tools assist international students in adjusting to new environments while helping institutions address cultural biases in teaching materials.
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Mythili Kolluru described AI as “a simulation of human intelligence” capable of thinking, decision-making, and supporting academic work. However, she cautioned that AI must remain an assistant and not a substitute for human intelligence.
“AI is powerful, but originality lies with human intelligence. We must never allow AI to replace what makes us uniquely human,” she stressed.
“We must overcome the fear of AI but also understand its limitations. It carries biases and cannot replace human judgment,” Dr. Kolluru said.
A recent MIT report presented at the conference warned of the dangers of over-reliance on AI, including the creation of “information bubbles” and loss of independent judgment.
“Students risk becoming passive consumers of knowledge rather than active seekers and creators,” the report noted.
In the question-and-answer session, Dr. Oyewole Sarumi revealed that his institution permits students to use up to 20 per cent AI-generated content in essays under strict guidelines. “We must set clear boundaries, because students will use AI regardless,” he said.
Oke added that AI should be seen as an assistant for assessment and review, not as a replacement for critical thought.
Across sessions, the consensus was clear: AI is a powerful tool that can empower education, but it must be used with caution, ethics, and balance.
The chairman of the conference Mrs Sripriya Sarathy reiterated the need to use AI responsibly.
Speaking, Prof. Olajumoke Familoni said ICLED Business School, Lekki, Lagos is poised to continue the framework for cybersecurity and an AI literate workforce.
“The collaboration was with IAstem India and poised for continuous engagement”, the professor added.
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