Association of Private Educators in Nigeria advocates human-centered AI

The Association of Private Educators in Nigeria (APEN) has called for the responsible integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms, emphasizing that technology should support rather than replace human educators. Ahead of the 2026 APEN Education Conference, themed ‘Human First: Leading with AI,’ association leaders stressed that while AI can enhance efficiency in lesson planning, curriculum development, and assessment, it cannot replicate the empathy, patience, and emotional support essential to student development.

Bolanle Adewole, Chairperson of the Conference Planning Committee, noted that the heart of education lies in human connection. She argued that educators must learn to use AI as a tool to improve professional efficiency while maintaining the professional judgment and care required to nurture individual learners.