NECA 5.0 Reimagines Learning as Stakeholders Explore AI and the Future of Education in Nigeria
Stakeholders chart a new course for Nigerian education through AI, innovation, and strategic partnerships
The Nigeria Education Conference & Awards (NECA) 5.0 convened Nigeria’s leading education stakeholders, policymakers, innovators, students, and technology experts on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Unilag Design Studio, University of Lagos, for a future-focused conversation on “Learning Reimagined: AI and the Future of Education in Nigeria.”
The fifth edition of the annual conference delivered an impactful blend of dialogue, innovation, student participation, and recognition of excellence, reinforcing NECA’s role as a premier platform shaping the future of education in Nigeria.
Students Lead the Conversation on Future Skills
The conference opened with a dynamic student debate on the topic “AI and the Future of Skills: Preparing Students for Jobs That Don’t Yet Exist.” Young debaters challenged traditional learning models and emphasized the need for creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and ethical AI literacy in preparing learners for an uncertain but opportunity-rich future.
Their perspectives set a powerful tone for the day, highlighting students not just as beneficiaries of reform, but as active contributors to the future of education.
Keynote Address Sets Vision for AI-Driven Education
The keynote address examined the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence on education systems globally, stressing the urgency for Nigerian institutions to rethink curricula, pedagogy, and assessment models. The address called for intentional adoption of AI that promotes inclusion, equity, personalization, and ethical responsibility while strengthening teacher capacity and institutional readiness.
Expert Panel Explores Skills for Jobs Yet to Be Created
A high-level panel discussion brought together education leaders, academics, EdTech innovators, and industry experts to explore how schools and universities can prepare students for emerging careers shaped by AI.
Panelists agreed that:
- Technical skills must be balanced with human skills
- AI literacy should cut across all disciplines
- Strong collaboration between government, academia, and industry is critical for sustainable reform
The session generated practical insights for educators navigating rapid technological change.
Studentpreneur Pitch Challenge Showcases Innovation
One of the most engaging segments of NECA 5.0 was the Studentpreneur Pitch Challenge, where student teams presented innovative solutions addressing learning accessibility, digital education tools, and AI-powered platforms. The pitches reflected creativity, problem-solving, and a growing entrepreneurial mindset among Nigerian students.
Exhibition Highlights Education Innovation
An exhibition running alongside the conference featured education technology tools, learning platforms, and innovation-driven solutions from organizations and startups. The exhibition space fostered networking, partnerships, and hands-on engagement with technologies shaping modern classrooms.
NECA Awards Celebrate Impact and Leadership
The event concluded with the NECA 2025 Awards Ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions to education development in Nigeria.
Award recipients included:
- Most Impactful CSR Initiative in Education – MTN Foundation
Honoured for its transformative education interventions empowering learners and communities nationwide. - EdTech Innovation Award – Oracle Academy
Recognised for advancing technology education through innovative digital learning programmes and global partnerships. - Outstanding Leadership in Education Award – Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, OON, FAS
Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, honoured for visionary leadership, academic excellence, and innovation-driven institutional growth.
Each award reflected NECA’s commitment to celebrating impact, leadership, and innovation across Nigeria’s education ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
NECA 5.0 concluded with renewed optimism and a shared commitment to reimagining education for a rapidly evolving world. Participants left inspired by new ideas, partnerships, and a collective resolve to ensure Nigerian learners are equipped not just for today’s jobs, but for the future.
About NECA
The Nigeria Education Conference & Awards (NECA) is an annual platform dedicated to advancing education through dialogue, innovation, and recognition of excellence. NECA brings together educators, policymakers, students, institutions, and industry leaders to drive sustainable transformation across Nigeria’s education sector.
Media Contact:
Nigeria Education Conference & Awards (NECA)
info@nigeriaeducationawards.com
www.nigeriaeducationawards.com
