Lecturers Must Go Digital or Fall Behind—UI Warns

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, fspsp, has stated that the university remains in the vanguard of knowledge exchange and dissemination, particularly in an era increasingly defined by digital innovation.

Professor Olapegba made this remark on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, while receiving a delegation from the Faculty of Education, including the Dean, members of the Local Organising Committee, and other key faculty members during a courtesy visit to flag off the Faculty’s upcoming International Conference.

Describing conferences as an integral part of the University’s academic culture, the DVC stressed that such events foster cross-fertilization of ideas and are essential for educational advancement. He particularly welcomed the theme of the conference—“Digital Transformation of Education”—noting that it aligns with global trends and the growing demand for more effective, technology-driven educational delivery methods.

“The economy today is knowledge-driven, and technology plays a vital role in how knowledge is disseminated,” Olapegba stated. “Teachers must now embrace digital tools to remain relevant and efficient in their fields.”

He added that digitalization would significantly reduce the burden on lecturers, many of whom struggle to find time for research due to the demands of in-person teaching and manual grading. He encouraged a shift toward virtual learning and digital tools to enhance both teaching and research productivity.

Professor Olapegba also commended the Faculty of Education for its strategic vision and lauded the selection of Professor Bidemi B. Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education and a proud alumna of the University of Ibadan, as the keynote speaker for the conference. He expressed hope that the conference, now in its fourth edition, would not be a mere formality but a catalyst for tangible innovation in the education sector.

Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty, Professor Olufemi Adegbesan, explained that the courtesy call was part of activities lined up for the commencement of the international conference. He emphasized the importance of the conference theme, noting that information and communication technology (ICT) now permeates all spheres of life, including research, teaching, and learning.

“The world is firmly in the digital age, and our educators must be equipped to operate effectively within it,” Adegbesan said. “This conference is aimed at upgrading our understanding and practices in line with contemporary educational demands.”

The visit and the forthcoming conference underscore UI’s commitment to leading conversations and innovations in educational delivery across Nigeria and the continent.