The immediate past Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, FAS has underscored the critical need for innovation in order to revolutionize Nigeria’s university education system.
He made the clarion call at the maiden Matriculation Ceremony of Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State on Saturday, June 15, 2024.
Prof. Ogundipe emphasized the urgency of discarding outdated beliefs and embracing novel approaches, driven by the integration of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) in decision-making processes.
“Today, we are living in a world that is constantly transforming. Our ability to adapt and grow is now invaluable, and the idea of a systemic “paradigm shift” across multiple areas has profound implications not only for our personal and professional lives, but also for the area I have devoted my entire professional career to – university education.”
He advocated for a paradigm shift from teaching for the Industrial Age to fostering learning for the Information Age, emphasizing learner autonomy, continuous learning, and quality over quantity.
“We are shifting the lens through which we view the world and the new inventions and capabilities being brought to life. For university education, it can lead to a more authentic, fulfilling experience, and greater success for students and learners everywhere.”
He acknowledged the natural resistance to change that humans would exhibit, but affirmed that the new paradigm’s efficacy would ultimately lead to its dominance.
Echoing Prof. Ogundipe’s submission, the Founder and Chancellor of Aletheia University, Maj. Gen. Sansadeen Awosanya urged students to embrace hard work, perseverance, and resilience in pursuit of their dreams.
He assured them of the university’s commitment to providing a holistic environment that nurtures their overall well-being and equips them with the skills to drive innovation and critical thinking.
