Education experts have condemned the persistent emphasis on certificate acquisition in Nigeria, urging a shift towards skills development and competency-based learning driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
The experts expressed concern over what they described as the continued glorification of paper qualifications by many Nigerians, speaking at the 2026 Hybrid Conference on Education organised by the School of Education, Federal College of Education (FCE), Eha-Amufu, Enugu State on Tuesday.
They noted that many graduates, despite holding certificates, lack the practical skills necessary for sustainable livelihoods.
Delivering the keynote address at the conference held at the institution’s Auditorium, with the theme “Beyond Grades and Classrooms: AI-Driven Teaching and Competency-Based Education,” Dr Dave Okoli, Dean of Student Affairs, Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze, Anambra State, said the era of relying solely on certification without considering its long-term impact was over.
He stressed the need for Nigeria, as a developing country, to embrace AI-driven competency-based education.
According to him, technological innovation has triggered a paradigm shift in the education sector, with the COVID-19 era underscoring the urgency of digital transformation.
“We are so conscious of certification and we no longer bother about what one can do after the certification. Education systems worldwide are evolving in response to technological advancement and shifting labour market demands.
“The era of using grades to justify students' efforts without considering skills, competence, the know-how and mastery of the subject or course in academics should not take the centre stage and needs to be upgraded.
“AI, an emerging transformative force, and Competency-Based education are capable of reshaping teaching and learning processes, and should be welcomed in the country's education reforms. By embracing this paradigm shift, stakeholders can build education systems that not only prepare learners for the future but also empower them to shape it.
“This is imperative to ensure that education remains relevant and impactful in the 21st century,” he said.
In a lead paper presentation, Dr Roseline Odoemenam of the Department of Educational Foundations, Ebonyi State College of Education, Ikwo, described the transition from traditional grade-centred classrooms to AI-driven competency-based education as transformative.
She, however, cautioned that successful integration of AI requires deliberate strategies, including investment in digital infrastructure, continuous teacher training, ethical and transparent use of learner data, and inclusive policy frameworks.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Ugo-Ferdinand Ugwueze, Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area, Enugu State, who was represented by the Acting Deputy Provost of FCE, Eha-Amufu, Dr Mrs. Obioma Eze, described the conference theme as apt and timely.
“It is coming when AI is becoming the ultimate thing in the day-to-day academic activities and other related fields of human endeavour,” he said.
He commended the organisers and advised Nigerians to prioritise competence over certificates, noting that the era of acquiring degrees, Master’s, and Ph.Ds without practical justification was over.
Also speaking on behalf of the College Provost, Prof. (Mrs.) Pauline Ikwuegbu, Dr Mrs. Eze, emphasised the importance of academic conferences in fostering professional growth among academic staff.
She added that the conference theme was carefully selected to expose and sensitise teaching staff to AI-assisted and technology-driven teaching methods.
While declaring the conference open, the Provost appreciated the Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Hon. Obiora Obeagu, represented by the Vice Chairman, Dr Cyril Nnamchi, as well as participants from other Colleges of Education for attending the conference.
Earlier, the Dean, School of Education, Dr Juliana Odo, said the conference was designed to provide a platform for academic staff to exchange ideas, share research findings, showcase innovation, and engage in meaningful dialogue.
She urged participants to contribute actively, noting that the ideas and partnerships formed would shape future learning experiences.
In a goodwill message, Hon. Obiora Obeagu, Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area and Father of the Day, commended the college management for the choice of theme.
“The theme speaks directly to the evolving realities of education in the 21st century,” he said, adding that education must move beyond mere certification to skills development and national growth.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Vincent Davidson, expressed appreciation to representatives of Igbo-Eze South and Isi-Uzo Local Government Areas, as well as all participants, for contributing to the success of the conference.
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