Speaker
Description
Uchenna, I. M.
NWAFOR ORIZU COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, NSUGBE, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA.
ibetomichaelu@gmail.com
Track: AI, Emerging Technologies and Future Learning
The rapid proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies presents both an unprecedented opportunity and a pressing challenge for Nigerian higher education. While AI has demonstrated transformative potential in personalizing learning, automating assessment, and supporting pedagogical innovation, its equitable deployment requires a cadre of teachers who are digitally literate, critically informed, and pedagogically adept. This paper examines the role of AI as a bridging mechanism for closing the digital divide in Nigerian teacher education, with specific attention to pre-service and in-service teacher preparation programmes in higher institutions. Drawing on a theoretical framework that integrates Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) and equity-centred pedagogy, the paper argues that AI integration in teacher preparation must be reimagined beyond tool adoption to encompass critical digital citizenship, inclusive design thinking, and contextually responsive instructional practice. The study draws on existing empirical literature, policy documents, and case analyses to propose a framework for AI-enhanced teacher preparation that addresses Nigeria's infrastructural constraints, socio-economic disparities, and diverse learning needs. Recommendations are offered for curriculum reform, faculty development, and institutional policy to reposition Nigerian higher education as a future-ready ecosystem.