How AI is Helping Nigerian Students Earn First Class Degrees

By Prof. Chris Imumolen

In recent years, there has been a noticeable spike in the number of First Class graduates emerging from both private and government-owned universities in Nigeria. This phenomenon has sparked curiosity about whether Nigerian students have suddenly become more academically focused or if there has been an unprecedented leap in intelligence levels. The reality, however, is tied to the integration and widespread use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education.

AI has revolutionized education, providing tools that simplify and accelerate learning processes. For instance:AI-Powered Research Tools: Students can generate theses, essays, and even comprehensive project work within seconds using platforms like ChatGPT, Jasper AI, and others.Problem-Solving Applications: Complex mathematical equations and scientific problems can now be solved instantaneously using AI tools like Wolfram Alpha or Symbolab, Language Proficiency: AI language tools have bridged gaps in grammar and expression, enabling students to deliver polished and well-articulated work.These tools make academic tasks more accessible, often leading to exceptional performance. However, this raises critical concerns about the authenticity of academic achievements.

Despite its benefits, the heavy reliance on AI poses significant threats to traditional learning and critical thinking:

Mental Laziness: Many students now depend on AI for tasks that were traditionally handled by personal effort and intellectual rigor, leading to diminished cognitive engagement,

Superficial Knowledge: AI-assisted work does not necessarily translate to actual understanding or mastery of subjects, as students may excel in grades without being able to demonstrate real-world knowledge,

Ethical Concerns: The use of AI in exams and assignments has blurred the lines between academic integrity and malpractice, making it harder to assess genuine performance.

The presence of AI is undeniable and transformative. For educators and institutions to adapt effectively, they must: Acknowledge AI’s Permanence: AI is here to stay, and instead of resisting, educators must incorporate it into teaching strategies to enhance, rather than replace, learning, Upgrade Educational Techniques: Teachers and lecturers must embrace technological advancements, using AI to design more interactive and thought-provoking lessons., Develop AI-Detection Tools: Systems capable of identifying AI-generated work should be integrated into grading systems to ensure fair assessments, Emphasize Critical Thinking: Institutions should focus on fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and independent reasoning in students.

AI has undoubtedly made learning more accessible and academic success easier to achieve. However, true education extends beyond grades; it involves nurturing a generation that can think, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. Educators must champion this balance, ensuring that AI is a tool for enhancement rather than a crutch that stifles genuine intellectual growth.

The rise in First Class graduates is both an achievement and a challenge for Nigerian education. How we address the integration of AI today will determine the quality of education and intellect in the future

Angelfrost:
A.I is the future, whether we like it or not...!

How you use it will underscore your level of intelligence or lack of.

There is absolutely nothing wrong in using artificial intelligence to make your learning smoother, faster, more convenient and understandable.

I honestly wish I had AI back in my undergraduate days... It would have been awesome.

Mindlog:
When you attend in-person interviews, make AI also help you market your knowledge and skills. 😂😂

maxwelloweezy:
DEY PLAY BEFORE AI THEY WAS GOGGLE SO WHY ARE YOU COMPLAINING YOU WANT THEM TO FAIL.

PulaPower:
Toh..

AI first class everywhere..

RapportNaija:
Nigerians in authority or some form of power baffle me...

Most University degrees in Nigeria are for 4 years plus of study, with undergrads having to go through rigorous manual test & exams from 100 to 400 level...mostly without the use of any tech device.

So how does AI help in the case of instant assessments that involves just a paper and biro?

I know for a fact that many mathematical courses even violates the use of scientific calculators.

So how do you credit the rise in First Class Graduates to AI when it could only be used for maybe regular assignments and final year research projects that's mostly just 6 units?

Please, free Naija students!