Educators, Communicators Should be Trained on Ethical AI Usage, Say Experts

By Barakat Lawal

Experts have called for robust training of educators, communicators, and emerging creators on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI).

Speaking at the 6th edition of the Social Media Hangout at Distant Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos (UNILAG), on Friday, November 21, the professionals noted that fast-advancing AI technologies are reshaping industries, heightening the demand for responsible application.

The event, themed “Social Media & AI Influence,” explored the need to assess the impacts of AI on digital communication, content creation, and public discourse.

Speaking on the topic, “The New Media Mindset: Training Ethical Communicators in AI Age & Impact of New Media on Traditional Media,” Professor  Oloruntola Sunday, Dean of Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, emphasised the need for future communicators to not only be tech savvy, but also ethical in their dealings with the media industry.

Sunday noted that it is important to thoroughly fact-check information before dissemination, adding that not everyone will come across a rejoinder once false information is released.

“Misinformation travels faster than truth. When you are in doubt, leave out,” he said.

Speaking further, he said that while AI offers remarkable capabilities, it cannot replace human emotional intelligence.

He urged participants to see AI as a supportive partner rather than a threat, encouraging a balanced approach that combines technology with human insight.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos state, represented by Tolani Sule, Commissioner of Tertiary Education, dissected the contrast between today’s digital opportunities and the limitations of the past.

Tolani urged  participants to fully embrace technology for growth and development.

He encouraged the audience to transform social media into a classroom, leverage AI as a personal tutor, and build a digital portfolio through creative means like music and designs.

“If you do not shake the digital world, the digital world will shape you,” he said.

Lady Lola Adey, an AI consultant encouraged participants to leverage AI tools in building their personal brands.

Sharing her experience in using AI tool for project management, she stated that what sets individuals apart in the digital space is their personality.

“Branding isn’t about followers, it is about what enters your bank account,” she said.

Lola added that every brand owner should have the mindset of converting popularity into tangible, monetised assets, adding that while AI can support journey, it cannot create brand.

The AI consultant listed practical AI tools that brand owners can explore for brand management and content strategy.

These tools are Notebook LM for organising ideas, Descript for video editing and transcription, and Pomelli