Osun and UNICEF Champion AI-Powered Learning for Out-of-School Children

By: Joseph James Udoh | Columnist | WBN NEWS Africa | June 18, 2026

The Osun State Government and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have renewed efforts to address the growing challenge of out-of-school children by embracing digital learning technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) as tools for expanding access to quality education across the state.

The commitment was reinforced during a two-day Media Dialogue on Digital Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Skills Development for Out-of-School Children, organised by the Osun State Ministry of Education in collaboration with UNICEF. The event brought together government officials, development partners, media practitioners and education stakeholders to explore innovative solutions capable of transforming learning opportunities for vulnerable children.

Speaking at the dialogue, the Commissioner for Education, Adedipo Eluwole, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Murtala Adekilekun Jimoh, said digital technology and AI offer powerful opportunities to bridge educational gaps and ensure that no child is excluded from learning because of economic hardship, geographical barriers or insecurity.

He noted that digital learning platforms are making education more accessible, flexible and inclusive, while AI has the potential to personalise learning, identify knowledge gaps and improve educational planning. He stressed that technological innovation must serve every child, regardless of background or circumstance.

Jimoh described the dialogue as both timely and strategic, saying it provides an opportunity to develop technology-driven interventions and skills acquisition programmes that can successfully integrate out-of-school children into learning. He also highlighted the need to equip young people with practical digital, entrepreneurial and life skills that will prepare them for self-reliance and future employment in an increasingly technology-driven world.

He further called on the media to help raise awareness about the challenges facing out-of-school children while promoting innovative educational solutions. Participants also examined important issues including digital access, literacy, online child protection and the long-term sustainability of technology-based education initiatives.

The Osun State Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving education through investments in school infrastructure, teacher training, instructional materials and better learning environments. UNICEF representatives echoed the urgency of addressing the learning crisis, warning that rapid technological advancement could deepen inequalities if vulnerable children are left without the skills needed to participate in the modern economy.

The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to stronger partnerships among government agencies, educators, development organisations and the media. Together, they aim to ensure every child enjoys access to inclusive, equitable and future-ready education. As digital innovation continues to reshape classrooms worldwide, Osun State and UNICEF are demonstrating that when technology is guided by purpose and collaboration, it can open doors of opportunity and give every child a brighter future.

"Digital technology and AI present new opportunities to bridge educational gaps and ensure that vulnerable and marginalized children are not left behind."

"Digital learning platforms are transforming education delivery by making learning more accessible, flexible and inclusive."

"Stakeholders must work together to ensure that technological innovations benefit every child, regardless of background or circumstance."

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