Professor Sefiu Oladunjoye, a professor of Language Education, Art and Social Sciences Education at Olabisi Onabanjo University, has advocated for leveraging social media and advanced technologies—including artificial intelligence—to increase flexibility and improve service delivery across all professions in Nigeria. He also urged the government to introduce a technology revolution in primary and secondary schools, especially in language education, to address gaps in the education system.
Speaking at the university’s 107th inaugural lecture in Ago‑Iwoye, titled “Literature of Teaching and Teacher of Literacy: The 21st Century Challenge,” Oladunjoye highlighted that language education is undergoing significant changes in both content and pedagogy. He noted that traditional teaching modes are being replaced by innovative approaches, resulting in language classrooms that differ markedly from those of the mid‑ and late‑20th centuries. To capture learners’ interest and accommodate their diverse proficiency levels, he emphasized the need for greater flexibility in classroom management.
Oladunjoye argued that computer‑mediated language instruction can automate learner autonomy and achieve more radical academic gains without compromising best practices. He suggested that incorporating audiovisual learning devices in classrooms is one effective way to attain this flexibility. Moreover, he called for the use of social media and advanced technology, including AI, to regulate service delivery across virtually all professions, provided that regular training accompanies these tools.
The professor also advocated for a participatory approach to academia that involves all individuals from elementary school through higher education. He pointed out that countries such as Finland and other European nations distinguish themselves through high levels of learner involvement in the teaching process. Given that English remains the official language of instruction in Nigeria, Oladunjoye recommended that English language teachers receive overseas training to interact with native speakers and improve their speaking and listening skills.
Finally, he stressed that the reinstatement of literacy depends on non‑negotiable teacher training. “Train and pay them handsomely for a better service and a better tomorrow,” he concluded.
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