AI is the New Chalk: Expert Urges Investment in Smart Teaching to Transform Education in Anam

By Olisemeka Sony

An Information Technology specialist and entrepreneur, Ambassador Chinedu Obeche, has called for sustained investment in innovative teaching methods and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the education system, describing quality teachers as the foundation for producing quality students.

Obeche made the call while facilitating a one-day intensive practical training on Artificial Intelligence for teachers and edupreneurs from Anam, Anambra East and Anambra West Local Government Areas of Anambra State.

The training was organised by the Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF) in collaboration with the Anam Indigenous Teachers (AIT) and sponsored by the Member representing Anambra East and West Federal Constituency, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, alongside the Mayor of Anambra West Local Government Area, Mrs. Nkiru Ndive.

Addressing participants, Obeche challenged educators to embrace a new mindset towards teaching, stressing that Artificial Intelligence should be viewed as a tool that enhances, rather than replaces, teachers.

“The quality of students is a direct reflection of the quality of teachers. When we invest in building ICT-compliant teachers, we are automatically investing in raising a generation of quality students,” he said.

Drawing from the Gestalt principles of learning, Obeche urged teachers to look beyond academic performance and understand the unique learning needs of every child.

“The way you see your students determines how you teach them. Teachers must look beyond the obvious and identify the hidden strengths and challenges of every learner to ensure no one is left behind.”

He described the AI training as a “game changer” capable of bridging the gap between rural and urban education.

“Teachers in Anam can now compete favourably with their counterparts anywhere in the country. Artificial Intelligence has become the great equaliser. With digital tools and AI-powered resources, classrooms in rural communities can deliver the same quality of learning as those in major cities.”

Obeche expressed optimism that the knowledge acquired during the workshop would significantly improve classroom delivery from the next academic session.

“Come back after the next academic calendar and you will see the difference. The impact of this training will be reflected in the performance, confidence and creativity of our students.”

Earlier, the President of the Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF), Dr. Christopher Ejike Anekwe, exposed participants—including lecturers, teachers, school administrators, tutors, edupreneurs and other professionals—to practical applications of Artificial Intelligence in teaching, research, school administration and content development.

Anekwe described the training as highly successful, noting that participants left equipped with practical digital skills that would improve educational outcomes across Anam.

“No education system rises above the quality of its teachers. If we truly desire better students, then we must first build better teachers. This training is part of our commitment to improving the standard of education in Anam.”

He explained that the partnership with the Anam Indigenous Teachers was deliberately designed to strengthen the teaching profession through continuous professional development.

“Education is everybody’s responsibility. Whether you have money, knowledge or influence, contribute what you have. Improving education in Anam requires collective commitment from individuals, organisations and government.”

Anekwe also called on well-meaning sons and daughters of Anam to invest in education, warning that declining access to quality learning can only be reversed through sustained collaboration.

The Chairman of the Anam Indigenous Teachers (AIT), Pastor Frank Agulu, described the programme as a landmark intervention that would not only improve teaching standards but also expose participants to opportunities within the digital economy.

“This programme is one of its kind. Beyond improving classroom teaching, we want teachers and edupreneurs to leverage AI tools to enhance productivity, create value and generate additional income.”

Agulu urged Anam people to embrace Artificial Intelligence and digital learning resources, noting that education is rapidly evolving.

“The world has become a global village. We must embrace Artificial Intelligence and online educational resources if we want our children to remain globally competitive.”

He disclosed that while about 100 people registered for the programme, 56 participants completed the intensive practical training.

Participants expressed appreciation to the organisers and sponsors for what they described as a life-changing learning experience, pledging to apply their newly acquired AI skills in classrooms and professional practice.

The training marks another significant step towards positioning Anam teachers to meet the demands of 21st-century education through innovation, technology and continuous professional development.

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