The federal government has stressed the need to prepare Nigerian teachers across all levels to harness artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies without compromising professional standards or teaching values.

Minister of Education Tunji Alausa spoke on Monday in Abuja while marking the 2026 World Teachers’ Day and the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, PTSEA.

Speaking on the theme “Protecting and Advancing the Status of the Teaching Profession in a Rapidly Changing World”, Mr Alausa said machines cannot replace the human qualities at the heart of teaching, despite expanding access to knowledge.

“These tools can help teachers reach learners and tailor instruction, but the judgement, encouragement and human connection of a skilled teacher remain indispensable,” the minister stated.

Mr Alausa reiterated the need to equip educators with the knowledge and skills required to use emerging technologies responsibly and confidently, while protecting the integrity and professional identity of the teaching profession.

While hailing teachers for their invaluable contributions to the country’s development, the minister added, “Every doctor, engineer, scientist, entrepreneur and public servant has benefited from a teacher and could not have become what they are today without teachers.”

Mr Alausa further called for renewed national respect for the teaching profession, saying educators’ work demanded more than one-day appreciation.

“Your service calls for more than words of thanks on one day each year. It calls for sustained respect, investment and partnership through each day of the year,” he noted.

Mr Alausa’s statement came amid efforts by countries, including Singapore, China, South Korea, and others, to leverage AI and other emerging technologies to improve education, highlighting the need for Nigeria to ensure that technological transformation strengthens rather than weakens the teaching profession.