Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
University don, Prof. Douglason Omotor, has called on educators to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies into teaching and learning to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the jobs of the future.
Omotor, who was the guest lecturer at the National Annual Dinner of the Government College Ughelli Old Students Association (GCUOBA) in Benin City, said the rapid pace of technological advancement had made it imperative for educational institutions to rethink conventional approaches to teaching.
He stressed that schools must adapt their curricula and teaching methods to reflect the changing demands of the workplace, noting that students who are exposed to emerging technologies would be better positioned to navigate the evolving global economy.
He stressed that while traditional teaching methods remained relevant, they should be complemented with modern technologies to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world.
According to him, exposing students to AI and other emerging technologies would better prepare them for changing academic, professional and social environments.
The don spoke at the annual gathering of old students of Government College Ughelli, which attracted traditional rulers, government officials, academics, captains of industry and other distinguished guests.
The event, organised by the Benin Branch of GCUOBA, was primarily aimed at raising funds for the development of existing facilities and the construction of new ones at the college.
The dinner, however, evolved into a colourful celebration, with traditional music and dancing adding excitement to the gathering and reinforcing the bond among the old boys and their guests.
The evening was heralded by the arrival of the President General Worldwide of GCUOBA, His Royal Majesty Albert Akpomudje, SAN, Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom (Alaka I), who was accompanied into the venue by a vibrant Benin traditional troupe.
The cultural troupe also entertained guests as representatives of the Edo and Delta State governments took their seats.
The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, while the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Michael Diejomaoh, urged old boys and guests to support efforts to improve teaching standards and infrastructure at Government College Ughelli.
His appeal received a positive response during the fundraising session, which was one of the major highlights of the evening.
The event attracted other notable personalities, including Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, President General Worldwide of Edo College Old Students Association; Chief Ekaiwe Nosa Adeyan of St. Patrick’s College Old Students Association; members of the Ancient Mariners, captains of industry and eminent academics.
In his closing remarks, HRM Akpomudje commended the Benin Branch for what he described as an outstanding hosting of the national dinner.
He noted that the occasion was particularly significant as it marked his final National Annual Dinner as President General Worldwide, with elections for a new National Executive Council scheduled to take place in four months.
