Education experts have emphasized that in order to encourage more Africans, especially those in rural areas, to embrace online learning in Africa through technology, it is essential to ensure more affordable internet services. They made these points during their discussions at the 5th edition of the African Edu-Tech Conference, which was hosted by the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Edu-first Nigeria Limited.
David Brown, who serves as the managing partner at D. Brown Consulting, stressed that affordable internet connectivity is a crucial factor in advancing education and improving learning outcomes. Brown also pointed out that the high cost of internet access is the primary obstacle preventing access to quality education in Nigeria and other African nations. He suggested that if internet access were more affordable and accessible, Nigerians, known for their innovation, could drive educational progress themselves, with government policies playing a key role in reducing internet costs.
Ray Atelly, the President/Chairman of the Council of Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, explained that the conference aimed to assess the current state of educational technology (EDTECH) in Africa and underline the untapped potential for enhancing education through technology. He emphasized the critical role of governments and policymakers in creating a favorable environment for EDTECH collaborations and partnerships. Atelly also praised the dedication and hard work of the organizing team, noting that the conference had already attracted over 10,000 attendees in its five-year history.
Moses Imayi, the Project Director/CEO of Edufirst.ng, highlighted the conference’s importance as a platform for promoting innovation and collaboration in the education technology sector in Africa. He expressed enthusiasm for the conference’s theme, “Leveraging Collaboration and Partnership for EdTech Growth in Africa,” and the way it aligns with the organization’s mission to transform education through technology by bringing together various stakeholders.
Seyi Adeyemi, Chairman of the Schools and Education Committee at NBCC, reiterated that the conference’s core objective is to provide a platform for government agencies, education professionals, and innovators to discuss how technology and innovation can revitalize the education system. He stated that the 5th edition of the Annual African Edu-Tech Conference marked a significant step toward transforming education in Africa, showcasing the potential for growth and development in the education sector through collaboration and partnerships.
In conclusion, Seyi Adeyemi praised the dedication of both Edufirst.ng and the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce to advancing education in Africa through technology and collaborative initiatives. The African Edu-Tech Conference, he added, serves as a testament to their shared vision and unwavering commitment to a brighter future for education in Africa.
Among the conference highlights was a panel discussion on “The Pros and Cons of Online Learning in Africa,” featuring students and moderated by one of their peers. Additionally, students presented innovative prototypes, with a project from Methodist Girls School winning the showcase, earning a cash prize of N100,000 and five Exam Padi tablets, sponsored by Exam Padi.
