The Nigeria Education Conference & Awards (NECA) 2024 unfolded in grand style on 27th November 2024 at the Julius Berger Lecture Theatre of the University of Lagos. This year’s event, themed “EdTech Revolution: Harnessing Technology to Transform Learning in Nigeria, ”brought together education stakeholders, policymakers, technology experts, and industry leaders to discuss the transformative power of technology in reshaping Nigeria’s education landscape.
The event served as a platform to explore innovative approaches to addressing educational challenges while recognizing individuals and organizations making extraordinary contributions to the sector.
Panel Sessions: A Meeting of Minds
NECA 2024 featured three thought-provoking panel sessions, each tackling critical issues at the intersection of technology and education.
1. “The Role of EdTech in Enhancing Teacher Training &
Professional Development”
This session delved into how digital tools and platforms can bridge gaps in teacher education and provide ongoing professional development. Panelists shared practical strategies for equipping educators with the skills needed to thrive in a tech-driven educational environment.
2. “EdTech Innovation & Collaboration: Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Education”
Experts explored how government and private sector partnerships can drive sustainable solutions for inclusive
education. Case studies highlighted how collaboration has fostered scalability and ensured that even marginalized communities benefit from cutting-edge educational technologies.
Celebrating Excellence: The NECA Awards 2024
The highlight of the event was the presentation of three prestigious awards, honoring trailblazers in the education and technology sectors:
1. “Pioneering Gender Diversity in Technology”
Recipient: She Code Africa
This award recognized She Code Africa for its unwavering commitment to advancing gender diversity and inclusivity in technology across Africa. Through impactful initiatives, the organization has empowered countless women and girls, inspiring a new generation of leaders and innovators.
2. “Technology Education Leader of the Year”
Recipient: Oracle Academy
Oracle Academy was celebrated for its outstanding contributions to technology education. By providing innovative programs and resources, the organization has empowered educators and students
alike, fostering a culture of technological excellence and innovation.
3. “Transformational Educators Empowerment Award”
Recipient: Global Educators Tribe
This award honored the Global Educators Tribe for its dedication to empowering educators across Nigeria and Africa. Through innovative training, mindset transformation, and community building, the Tribe has inspired growth, collaboration, and excellence in education.
Keynote Address: Vision for the Future
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Oluwole Babafemi Familoni, former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, who spoke passionately to the event’s theme: “EdTech Revolution: Harnessing Technology to Transform Learning in Nigeria.”
Professor Familoni emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria’s education sector to embrace technology as a cornerstone for transformation. He highlighted the critical role EdTech can play in bridging educational gaps, improving accessibility, and fostering creativity and innovation among students and educators alike.
Drawing from his extensive experience in academia, he underscored the importance of strategic investments, robust policies, and collaborative efforts to ensure EdTech solutions are inclusive and sustainable. He urged stakeholders to prioritize capacitybuilding for teachers, the development of localized digital content, and the creation of infrastructures that support equitable access to technology for learners in rural and urban areas.
“Technology is not just a tool for education; it is the foundation upon which the future of learning will be built,” Professor Familoni concluded, leaving the audience with a renewed commitment to action.
Looking Ahead
As the curtains fell on NECA 2024, attendees departed with a sense of purpose and inspiration to drive technological advancements in education. The conversations and collaborations that emerged from the event set the stage for tangible progress in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
NECA remains a cornerstone for thought leadership and excellence, bringing together key players from education and technology to shape a future where learning is inclusive, innovative, and sustainable.
