The 2024 Hybrid Conference, jointly organized by the Faculty of Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in collaboration with Fontis Aid Foundation, Anambra State, concluded with a resounding call for the integration of technologies in education. Held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the ASUU-NAU Secretariat, the conference, themed “Use of Emerging Technologies in African Education and Development,” witnessed esteemed experts and participants deliberating on pivotal strategies to propel educational advancement through technology adoption. Prof. Ogechi Anyanwu from Eastern Kentucky University, USA, delivered the keynote address, titled “Greasing the wheels of human progress.” He emphasized the transformative potential of various emerging technologies, including educational technology, biotechnology, information technology, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and robotics, in driving Africa's socio-economic development. Anyanwu underscored the importance of leveraging technology to foster equal access to education, inclusiveness, and gender equality, thereby greasing the wheels of human progress.

Representing the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the Chief of Staff, reiterated the state government's commitment to supporting human capital development initiatives and highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate emerging technologies across education and health sectors in the state.

While declaring the conference open, the University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone, FAS, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, lauded the conference's theme as timely, emphasizing the indispensability of technology in contemporary education. He stressed the university's dedication to embracing technological advancements to ensure innovative teaching methods and learning experiences. Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Vivian Nwogbo, elucidated on the significance of incorporating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics in classrooms to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. She highlighted the conference's role in fostering intellectual engagement, networking, and celebrating research and scholarship in education.

Dr. Chioma Ikeanyionwu, the Founder of Fontis Aid Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of emerging technologies in bridging the gap between theory and practice in education. She urged educators and innovators to harness the power of technology to create inclusive learning environments and empower individuals of all backgrounds. Prof. Bellarmine Azumah from Murray State University, USA, advocated for synergy in technology application among educational leaders. She highlighted the challenges impeding rapid integration of technology in Africa and called for policy reforms and infrastructure development. Prof. Mukaosolu Mgbemena from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, emphasized on technological applications to ensure quality education and lifelong learning for all. She called for policy reforms, constant teacher training, infrastructural development, curriculum redesigning, and public-private partnership to adjust to emerging technologies.

Chairing the occasion, the former Provost, Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu decried the spate of bullying, including cyberbullying among secondary school students, and reiterated the need to deploy technologies in classrooms for effective teaching and learning. Prof. Amaka Okeke, the Local Organizing Committee Chairman, described the theme as apt and of monumental importance. She expressed optimism that the resolutions reached would help to inspire the needed change in the teaching and learning process. The conference also awarded special excellence honours to distinguished individuals such as Governor Charles Soludo, Lady Uju Dike, Rt. Hon. Sir Somtochukwu Udeze, High Chief Oluchukwu Ikeanyionwu, Chief Chukwudiegwu Umebunyuo, Dr. Onyeka Nzekwesi, Chief Michael Amedu, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Dr. Chike Ezenduka and Engr. Adindu Donatus Ogbu, for their exemplary leadership and contributions to various fields. Anchored by the esteemed Professor of Adult and Special Education, Williams Emeka Obiozor, the event concluded on a note of optimism, with resolutions aimed at inspiring transformative change in the teaching and learning process. The Africana International Troupe dance group led by Prof. Oby Okonkwor also performed at the event.

Address by Ikeanyionwu Chioma Lovettemary PH.D