An educationist, Catherine Bamidele, has cautioned secondary school students against the overuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their academics.

She said that heavy reliance on AI deprives young minds of critical thinking, innovation and genuine intellectual growth.

Mrs Bamidele, a counsellor and child protection advocate, gave the advice on Saturday during the graduation and prize-giving ceremony of Bezalel Generation International Schools (BGIS) in Jikwoyi, Abuja.

She urged students to focus on reading and self-development instead.

“Now, when you are given an assignment, you just copy and paste. No brainstorming, no reasoning, and your IQ is not being challenged.

“You cannot be creative when you are relying entirely on finished products generated by someone else’s brain,” Mrs Bamidele said.

She emphasised the importance of reading and critical thinking as essential tools for personal and career development.

She also noted that, while technology offered unprecedented learning opportunities, students must learn self-discipline and moderation in managing technology, social media and personal freedom.

She noted that achieving long-term goals required planning, smart decision-making and continuous practice, rather than mere wishes or social media distractions.

In her remarks, the chief executive officer of BGIS, Modupe Adetunji, advised the graduating students to remain resilient and maintain academic integrity and moral values.

Mrs Adetunji urged them to build on the strong foundation laid for them as they transitioned to tertiary education.

“When you get to the university, you will be on your own.

‘’No teacher will chase you around, but do not forget the strong foundation that has been imparted into your life at Bezalel,” she said.

Mrs Adetunji also charged the Junior Secondary School students moving into Senior Secondary School to dedicate themselves and remain focused on their academics.

“Your preparation starts now. You are on another level entirely, and you must get ready for the task ahead,” she said.

Earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Abiodun Adebanjo, urged parents to continue investing in their children’s education despite economic challenges.

“We parents must understand that every investment we make in education is vital for the children.

“I know the times are difficult, but any sacrifice you make in educating your children is not a waste; it is worth it in every ramification,” he said.

Also, Samson Otunubi, chief examiner for General Mathematics, West African Examinations Council, Gwagwalada Centre, Abuja, dispelled the misconception that mathematics was a difficult subject.

Mr Otunubi described mathematics as one of the simplest subjects, emphasising, however, that it required consistent practice. 

(NAN)