At the 15th Annual Autism Conference organized by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc in Lagos, stakeholders emphasized the need to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into autism education across Nigeria. The Executive Director of the Education for Autism Initiative, Oyeyemi Patricia Adako, led the call, stressing that AI offers a transformative solution for children on the autism spectrum, especially in underserved communities where traditional education systems fall short.
Adako highlighted that AI has the capacity to deliver personalized and adaptive learning experiences, addressing long-standing challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, rigid teaching methods, and a shortage of trained special education teachers. Drawing parallels with historical breakthroughs like Anne Sullivan’s work with Helen Keller, she emphasized that no child is unteachable when given the right tools and support.
The conference, themed “From Awareness to Action: 15 Years of Advancing Autism Inclusion,” brought together educators, developers, caregivers, and global experts. Adako urged Nigerian tech innovators to create culturally relevant AI tools tailored to the local context. She emphasized that inclusion is not solely about technology but about ensuring that every neurodiverse learner is seen and supported.
Despite the promise of AI, Adako acknowledged several challenges—including cost, lack of infrastructure, teacher training gaps, and unreliable electricity and internet. To overcome these, she proposed starting small with low-cost tools, community training initiatives, and offline-compatible devices, while calling for stronger public-private partnerships to foster sustainable solutions.
Other notable speakers, including GTCO CEO Segun Agbaje and international autism care experts, echoed the call for inclusive systems that prioritize dignity, psychological safety, and contextually relevant care. They collectively urged policymakers and developers to embrace innovation that not only raises awareness but actively drives inclusion in Nigeria’s autism education landscape.
Source: Punch