How One NYSC Member is Shaping the Future: Bringing AI to Lagos Public School Students
Hello, fellow Corps members! Have you ever wondered how your Community Development Service (CDS) or personal Community Development Project (CDP) can truly make a difference? Today, we are inspired by the story of a Corps member, Miss Temiloluwa Owolabi, who chose to equip secondary school students with knowledge about Artificial Intelligence (AI).
A Corps Member’s Vision for a Digital Future
Miss Temiloluwa Owolabi, an Electrical/Electronics Engineering graduate serving in Lagos State, noticed something important. Our world is changing fast, and technology is at the centre of it. She saw that many young students use the internet and technology without fully understanding it. This can be risky. So, under her personal CDP, she decided to take action.
Her project was called “I, AI and You: Learning to Think, Engage and Create in an AI-Driven World.” She organised a special AI literacy training for students at Immaculate Heart Comprehensive High School in Ikeja. The event was held at the Education District II Headquarters in Maryland.
Why This NYSC Project Matters
As Corps members, we are placed in different communities. We have a unique opportunity to share our knowledge and skills. Temiloluwa used her STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) background to do just that. She believed that if students understand AI early, they can:
- Use technology safely and avoid online risks.
- Tell the difference between real information and false information (misinformation).
- Think critically and use AI tools in an ethical way.
- Be ready for future jobs and opportunities in a digital world.
The Heartwarming Response from the School
The school was very grateful for this NYSC initiative. The Vice-Principal, Mrs Bolanle Apena-Mafemi, praised the Corps member ( FUTA 500L Student’s Viral Okada Ride for School Fees Sparks NYSC Corps Members’ Inspiration) for her dedication. She said the project was innovative and would help the students see AI as a tool for good. However, she also mentioned that more support is needed, like:
- Training for teachers on digital topics.
- Providing more computers and tablets for learning.
- Having more of such capacity-building programmes for students.
What the Students Learned
One of the students, Master Yusuf Ridwan, shared that he learned about:
- AI Ethics (the right and wrong way to use AI).
- Machine Learning and Deep Learning (types of AI).
- Different ways AI is used in everyday life.
How You Can Start Your Own Impactful NYSC CDP
Inspired by this story? You too can create a meaningful Community Development Project. Here are some simple steps:
- Identify a Need: Look around your host community or Place of Primary Assignment (PPA). What skills or knowledge do the people lack? It could be digital literacy, health education, or something else you are good at.
- Plan Your Project: Write down your idea. Give it a clear title and objective, just like Temiloluwa did.
- Seek Approval: Discuss your plan with your CDS Officer, your PPA, and the school or community leaders. Getting their support is very important.
- Keep It Simple: You do not need a big budget. Start with a simple seminar, training session, or workshop. Use your personal knowledge and passion.
- Focus on Sustainability: Think of how the community can continue to benefit after your service year. Maybe you can train a teacher or leave learning materials behind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Such an NYSC AI Project
1. What is a personal Community Development Project (CDP) in NYSC?
A personal CDP is a project a Corps member (Breaking News: Corps Members in Panic as Armed Herdsmen Invade Benue Community) plans and executes by themselves or with a small team, outside of the regular weekly CDS group activities. It is aimed at solving a specific problem in the host community.
2. Do I need to be a STEM graduate to teach AI or digital skills?
No, you do not. While a STEM background helps, any Corps member with good knowledge of basic computer use, online safety, or even a strong willingness to learn and teach can start a digital literacy project. You can focus on what you know.
3. How can I get funding or resources for my CDP?
You can start with little or no money. Use free online resources for teaching. You can also write a proposal to your Local Government Inspector (LGI), your PPA, or even approach local businesses for small support like printing materials or providing refreshments.
4. How do I get permission to organise a programme in a public school?
First, write a formal letter to the school principal. Explain who you are (an NYSC Corps member), your project goals, and how it will benefit the students. It is also good to inform your NYSC Local Government Secretariat about your plans.
5. What if I am not posted to a school for my PPA?
Your PPA does not limit you. You can approach any school in your host community. The important thing is to seek permission from the right authorities, which include the school management and your NYSC officials.
6. How can I make my CDP have a lasting impact?
Design your project to be simple and easy to continue. Create simple handouts or guides for the students or teachers. You can also try to train a few teachers or student champions who can teach others after you leave.
7. Can I do this kind of project alone or do I need a team?
You can start alone. However, working with other Corps members who have similar interests can make it easier and more fun. You can share ideas and responsibilities.
8. Will the NYSC recognise my efforts in a personal CDP?
Yes! The NYSC often recognises outstanding Corps members through State Honours Awards and the Presidential Honours Award. A well-executed personal CDP is a strong point for such awards and can also be highlighted in your Certificate of National Service.
