NIEPA Completes AI Training Program for Administrative and Finance Professionals

The ICT Department of NIEPA successfully conducted an intensive training program on “Innovative Artificial Intelligence Solutions” for academic, administrative, and accounting professionals on August 20-21, 2024, at the Institute’s headquarters in Ondo. The workshop sessions provided participants with a unique opportunity to explore AI applications in streamlining tasks and enhancing practices.

According to Mrs. Lydia Ogunsola, Head of ICT, the training aimed to equip professionals with cutting-edge skills to drive innovation and efficiency. She encouraged participants to cooperate with the resource persons and be attentive to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and technical know-how to improve service delivery in line with global best practices.

The participants underwent an intensive training programme, where they were thoroughly drilled in various aspects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. They explored the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence in Education, understanding its core concepts and principles. Additionally, they delved into the diverse Uses of Artificial Intelligence in Education, discovering how AI can enhance teaching, learning, and administrative processes. The training also covered AI Tools in Education, equipping participants with hands-on experience in utilizing AI-powered tools to streamline tasks and improve efficiency. Furthermore, the programme addressed Ethical Considerations in the Use of AI, emphasizing the importance of responsible AI adoption in educational settings.

The Final Takeaway session provided a comprehensive summary of key learnings, while the Hands-on Practical exercise allowed participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. The training also introduced Innovative Approaches to AI Prompts, guiding participants through the 6-Step Prompt Checklist to craft effective prompts. The Perfect Prompt session offered expert tips on designing clear and concise prompts, and the programme concluded with a crucial discussion on How to Use AI Responsibly Every Time, ensuring participants understood the significance of ethical AI integration in education.

At the closing ceremony of the 2-day workshop, the Acting Director-General, Dr. David Shofoyeke, and the management team commended the participants for their commitment to learning and growth. Dr. Shofoyeke noted that the Office of the Head of the Civil Service has issued a directive leading to the full digitalization of all processes in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. He emphasized that NIEPA must accelerate its digitalization efforts to meet the 2025 deadline stipulated in the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025. Dr. Shofoyeke urged staff to leverage AI technology to drive national goals aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

Engineer Pius Odeluga, one of the resource persons at the workshop, stated that the programme aimed to shape the future of education and administration with AI, aligning with NIEPA’s goal of improving educational planning and administration through cutting-edge technology. He highlighted that AI can automate repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their work, and emphasized that only an automated Institute manned by well-trained professionals can deliver development in NIEPA.