Microinventor has called on school owners across Nigeria to begin teaching Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the same foundational level as numeracy and literacy, as part of efforts to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
This advocacy was made during a school owners’ forum hosted by Fidelity SME Hub, where Microinventor delivered a presentation highlighting the urgent need to rethink how emerging technologies are introduced in basic education.
Robotics and AI Are No Longer Optional
Speaking at the forum, Microinventor emphasised that the modern world is increasingly shaped by intelligent systems, automation, and digital technologies. In this context, limiting Robotics and AI to optional clubs or elite programmes risks leaving the majority of students unprepared.
The presentation argued that, just as every child is expected to learn how to read, write, and work with numbers, every child should also develop a basic understanding of how technology works.
Learning From Past Mistakes
Microinventor drew attention to the experience of Data Processing as a school subject, which in many cases became theory-based and focused solely on examinations, with little or no practical engagement.
The warning was clear: Robotics and AI must not follow the same path.
Without deliberate investment in practical teaching methods and skilled instructors, these subjects risk being reduced to chalkboard explanations, undermining their true purpose of producing problem-solvers and creators.
Foundational Skills for a Tech-Invaded World
The presentation explained that teaching Robotics and AI at a foundational level does not mean introducing complex programming or advanced engineering concepts at an early age. Instead, it involves:
- Simple hands-on activities such as building basic circuits
- Understanding logic, sequencing, and cause-and-effect
- Encouraging experimentation and creative problem-solving
These skills were described as modern literacy skills—essential for navigating and shaping today’s world.
Making Robotics Education Accessible
Microinventor also addressed concerns around cost and accessibility. The forum highlighted that quality robotics education does not have to rely on expensive imported kits. With the right approach, schools can deliver impactful learning experiences using simple materials, creativity, and structured guidance.
This model makes Robotics and AI education more inclusive, enabling schools of different sizes and resources to participate meaningfully.
A Call to School Owners
The session concluded with a call to school owners to:
- Begin integrating Robotics and AI as core learning experiences
- Prioritise hands-on instruction over theory
- Invest in instructor capacity and sustainable delivery models
Microinventor reiterated its commitment to supporting schools through training, mentoring, and practical STEM initiatives that align with global best practices.
Shaping the Future Together
The engagement at the Fidelity SME Hub forum represents a growing recognition among educators and school administrators that foundational education must evolve to reflect the realities of a digital world.
Microinventor continues to advocate for early, practical, and inclusive Robotics and AI education—ensuring that Nigerian students grow not just as technology users, but as confident builders and innovators.