Application of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) in Enhancing Inclusive Education in Nigeria

Abstract

The study explores the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing inclusive education in Nigeria, with emphasis on its potential to address challenges faced by learners with diverse needs. Inclusive education seeks to provide equal learning opportunities for all students regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, or linguistic differences. However, in Nigeria, the implementation of inclusive practices has been hindered by inadequate infrastructure, limited teacher training, funding constraints, and socio-cultural barriers. This paper examines how AI technologies such as adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools, predictive text, and AI-driven analytics can be leveraged to foster inclusivity, improve access for learners with special needs, and support teachers through data-driven insights and automated processes. The study highlights the transformative benefits of AI, including personalized learning, democratization of education in rural areas, enhanced teacher support, improved accessibility for students with disabilities, and real-time feedback systems. Despite these benefits, critical challenges such as infrastructural deficits, high implementation costs, weak policy frameworks, teacher unpreparedness, and digital inequality continue to impede the full adoption of AI in Nigerian schools. To maximize AI’s potential, the study recommends deliberate strategies including investment in infrastructure, teacher professional development, establishment of a national AI-in-education policy, culturally relevant AI applications, and strong data protection frameworks. By adopting these measures, Nigeria can effectively harness AI to create equitable, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. The concluded that AI integration, if properly managed, can bridge educational gaps, promote equity, and significantly improve the quality of inclusive education in Nigeria.