Use AI responsibly, Ekiti lawmaker advises Nigerian students

Kolawole Akinlayo, a federal lawmaker representing Ekiti North II Federal Constituency, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian students regarding the potential pitfalls of artificial intelligence and digital learning tools. While acknowledging the benefits of modern technology, Akinlayo expressed concern that excessive dependence on AI could significantly undermine students' critical thinking abilities and overall academic performance. He emphasized that AI should serve as a tool to enhance learning, not replace the fundamental process of thinking for oneself.

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AI should be used in a positive, not in the negative way. Do not allow the computer to think for you; you should be able to think for yourself.

During an event where he received the National Association of Nigerian Students Excellence in Leadership, Service and Community Impact Award, Akinlayo drew a contrast between past academic rigor and current trends. He noted that while students in the past excelled through diligent note-taking and study, many today resort to simply searching for answers online when given assignments. This trend, he argued, is counterproductive, as modern tools should ideally lead to greater achievements with less effort, not a decline in intellectual engagement.

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In the past, you had to attend lectures, get your notebooks, take notes, keep them and read. Yet, people excelled and turned out to be brilliant students, but these days, people go on the internet to search for answers when they are given assignments and tests.

Akinlayo also raised serious concerns about the unethical use of digital tools, linking it to a decline in moral upbringing. He pointed to instances of students using computers for fraudulent activities, attributing this to a lack of proper home training and parental oversight. The lawmaker stressed the urgent need to revive effective parental training, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear rewards and consequences for actions to foster better outcomes. He urged teachers and parents to prioritize students' moral development, ensuring that discipline and ethical conduct are cultivated alongside academic pursuits. Akinlayo reaffirmed his commitment to supporting students, noting his initiatives like bursaries and incentives for high academic achievement in his constituency.

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Today, there are student in school who use their computers for fraud. This reflects a lack of proper home training. Many parents allow their children to use computers.