The University of Lagos (UNILAG), through its Faculty of Education, has re-affirmed its commitment to advancing equitable and future-ready education through the responsible adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, particularly in resource-constrained environments.
This was the focus of the Faculty of Education Annual Lecture, held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Jelili Adebisi Omotola Multipurpose Hall B, UNILAG. The gathering explored innovative approaches to improving access to quality education.
The lecture, themed Bridging Educational Inequalities Through Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation in Resource-Constrained Contexts had in attendance the University Management team, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Development Services and Management Services), Professor Foluso Afolabi Lesi and Professor Muyiwa Falaiye; and Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mrs. Abosede Wickliffe alongside academics, policymakers, education practitioners, corporate stakeholders, alumni, staff, and students.
UNILAG Must Adapt to Digital Future – DVC (DS)
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Foluso Afolabi Lesi, described AI as a transformative force that has reshaped knowledge creation and dissemination globally.
He stressed that universities must continue to adapt to emerging technologies to remain relevant and equip graduates with the competencies required for the evolving digital economy.
According to him, the global shift from analogue to digital systems presents higher education institutions with an opportunity to redefine teaching, learning, and research. He added that embracing innovation is central to the University’s vision of producing graduates who can thrive in a technology-driven world.
Faculty Committed to Future-Ready Education – Dean of Education
In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Simeon Oladipo, appreciated the University Management for its support of the Faculty’s programmes. He described the annual lecture as a key intellectual platform for discussing contemporary issues in education.
Professor Oladipo noted that AI has expanded research opportunities, accelerated knowledge generation, and opened new frontiers for teaching and learning. He pointed out that modern education must evolve to reflect global realities, and reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to promoting innovative teaching practices that prepare learners for the future.
Technology Must Be Paired with Equity – Dr. Ibrahim
Delivering the keynote lecture, renowned scholar and public intellectual, Dr. Jibril Ibrahim commended UNILAG for its contributions to academic excellence and national development, and described the lecture theme as timely and significant.
Dr. Ibrahim described education as one of the most powerful instruments for national transformation. He noted that quality education empowers individuals, reduces poverty, promotes social mobility, strengthens democratic institutions, and drives economic growth.
He explained that AI, when deployed responsibly, has enormous potential to expand access to learning regardless of geography, economic status, or social background.
However, Dr. Ibrahim cautioned that technology alone cannot solve educational challenges. He called for visionary leadership, sound public policies, sustained investment in education, reliable digital infrastructure, ethical governance, and an unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion to ensure that technological innovation delivers meaningful impact.
Awards and Scholarships
The lecture also featured the presentation of awards and scholarships to deserving individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to education, scholarship, and national development. This underscored the Faculty’s commitment to celebrating excellence and inspiring future generations.
Award recipients included:
- Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, (Vice-Chancellor, UNILAG)
- Professor Simeon Oladipo (Dean of the Faculty of Education)
- Professor Abraham Osinubi (Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies)
- Two Retired Professors of the Faculty: Professor Uchenna Udeani and Professor Mercy Adaku Chigemezu Onwuama
Author: Afolabi Akinola
Photographer: Ayomide Oloyede
Article Editor: Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem
