Enugu State marked the International Day of Education 2025 with a memorable event held across the three senatorial zones that brought together relevant stakeholders to discuss the future of education in the state. The event championed by the Office of the First Lady, Her Excellency Mrs. Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah, themed; “Artificial Intelligence and Education: Human Agency in an Automated World,” was a call to reflect on the powerful role technology can play in education, while ensuring that human values like creativity and critical thinking remain at the heart of learning.
In her speech during the event at Enugu North Senatorial Zone, held at Adada Hall in Nsukka on Thursday 23rd January 2025, the First Lady of Enugu State, Her Excellency, Mrs Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah, represented by the the wife of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Chairman, Barr. Mrs. Ugo Ferdinand, conveyed her vision for integrating AI into education in Enugu, while stressing the importance of keeping human-centered approaches intact.
While sharing her belief on education as the bedrock of societal growth, Her Excellency stated; “Education remains the foundation upon which societies thrive, and we must harness the opportunities presented by technological advancements like AI to enhance learning, but while we embrace AI, we must also preserve the irreplaceable value of human agency. In Enugu, we are redefining education, especially through Smart Schools, where we combine AI tools with creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.”
The event was a celebration of the ongoing educational revolution in Enugu State. The First Lady emphasized that while AI can empower students with personalized learning tools, it should never replace the value of human insight. She encouraged educators, parents, and students to use AI responsibly, fostering an environment where technology helps students think more creatively and independently.
“We are setting up Smart Schools in Enugu, which use AI to help our students collaborate, create, and think outside the box. This initiative is our way of ensuring that our students are prepared to thrive in the future.”
She called on teachers, parents, and local government leaders to continue working together to shape the future of education. “This is a collective effort. We need each and every one of you to support our children in this journey. The future of Enugu belongs to them, and we must provide them with the right tools to succeed,” she urged.
Mrs. Mbah also reasserted the government’s commitment to making quality education accessible to all, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed in both the digital and human aspects of life. “We are committed to a transformative education system that prepares our children to be the leaders of tomorrow,. It’s not just about learning; it’s about shaping character, building skills, and creating a better future.” she said.
“We are not just building the industrial capital of Nigeria; we are also shaping the future of education for our children,” Mrs. Mbah concluded. “Together, with the right tools, the right mindset, and a shared commitment to excellence, we will build a better tomorrow.” she added.
The celebration was filled with energy and enthusiasm, as it brought together local government leaders, educators, students, and special guests. First ladies from the six local government areas of Enugu North Senatorial Zone were present, along with dignitaries like Engr. Jude Chinedu Asogwa, Executive Chairman of Nsukka Local Government, and other influential figures in Enugu's educational landscape.
Some of the highlights of the day were the student quiz competition on AI and education and drama. Young minds from various schools across the Senatorial Zone passionately discussed how AI could enhance learning, while still honoring the human aspects of education. The competition was not only about knowledge but also about sparking creativity and critical thinking among the students.
There were also performances that celebrated both culture and technology, with traditional drumming and dancing alongside innovative STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) projects presented by the students. These projects reflected the growing interest in combining AI with arts and sciences, showing the potential for a well-rounded education.
The event brought together first ladies from all six local government areas in Enugu North Senatorial Zone, alongside several distinguished guests. These included Engr Jude Chinedu Asogwa, the Executive Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Chidi Egeonu, Special assistants to the Governor of Enugu State on Special Duties, Dr. Uzoamaka Okenwa, Technical Adviser to the First Ladybon Gender Matters, Mr. Favour C. Nwosu, Special Assistant to the First Lady on External Relations, Mrs. Anna Igbokwe, Secretary, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Egodi, MD, Custos Care Foundation, Miss Deby Alozie, SA to the First Lady on Social Media, Mrs. George Ezeh, Director of Photography and Resource Person, Dr. (Mrs.) Onyishi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Education, Mr. Chiduebem Agbowo, MD, Enugu Tech Hub and a host of others.
