Technology For Inspiration Initiative, InspireIT, in partnership with Google and Women Techmakers, recently conducted an innovative training event titled Experience AI, aimed at enhancing the professional development of science and mathematics teachers in Nigeria. Held in Owerri, Imo State, the event brought together 50 selected teachers from various schools across the 27 Local Government Areas of the state.
This groundbreaking initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into classrooms to improve teaching outcomes in science and mathematics. With Nigeria’s education sector facing challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of qualified teachers, and inadequate infrastructure, AI is emerging as a powerful tool that can help bridge these gaps.
The programme featured interactive workshops where educators learned how AI can transform their teaching methods. Facilitators focused on tools like Google Classroom, Google Quickdraw, and Google Meet, demonstrating how these platforms can be leveraged to make learning more interactive, personalized, and effective. The teachers were shown how to store files, conduct virtual classes, and use AI-driven tools to engage students more effectively in their subjects, especially in mathematics.
During the event, it was revealed that only 3% of the teachers currently use AI tools in their classrooms, while 40% had some awareness of AI but had never used it in practice. This gap in AI usage underscores the urgent need for more training and support for educators in Nigeria. By the end of the programme, a significant number of teachers were able to access and navigate Google’s AI tools, gaining practical skills that will help them improve their teaching and, by extension, the learning experience for their students.
Chioma Emeanna, one of the participants, expressed her gratitude for the initiative, applauding InspireIT, Google, and Women Techmakers for organizing the event. “This kind of programme is exactly what we need to keep up with the global trends in education,” she said. “It is essential for teachers in sub-Saharan Africa to equip themselves with AI tools to better prepare students for the future. I hope we see more of these events.”
The Experience AI event is a small but important step in a larger movement to reshape education in Nigeria through technology. As AI continues to revolutionize industries worldwide, it holds the promise of transforming the way education is delivered in Nigeria, offering students a better, more personalized learning experience and giving teachers the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
