Campus News

VC urges ASALLIN to embrace technology with caution

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has advised members of the Academic Society for Arabic Language and Literature in Nigeria (ASALLIN) to exercise caution in adopting modern technology, particularly as it relates to teaching aids.

Prof. Egbewole gave this advice last Monday (February 10, 2025) in his remarks at the 19th International Conference organised by ASALLIN in collaboration with the Department of Arabic and Transnational Studies, University of Ilorin. The conference, held at the University Auditorium, was themed “Towards Modernising Arabic Curricula and the Use of Modern Teaching Aids.”

Prof. Egbewole, who was also the Chief Host of the Conference, stressed the importance of leveraging technology to enhance learning while being mindful of its potential challenges.

 He highlighted the need for fundamental regulations to guide technological advancements to benefit the society at large.

The Vice Chancellor also called on ASALLIN to collaborate with the University of Ilorin to reshape and reposition Arabic language scholars.

He welcomed participants from all 36 states of Nigeria to Ilorin, which he described as the “City of Arabic Language.”

Prof. Egbewole urged ASALLIN members to continue their efforts in promoting Arabic language and literature in Nigeria.

                In his keynote address, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Al-Isra University, Amman, Jordan, Prof. Hashim Salih Manna, stressed that modernisation is essential for Arabic language education.

He explained that Arabic, as a flexible language, has historically embraced influences from other languages without losing its originality and charm.

The Professor of Literature and Criticism stressed the importance of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), critical thinking skills, and advanced teaching methods into the Arabic curricula.

The Jordanian poet argued that modernisation is key to improving the quality of education and ensuring that Arabic remains relevant in today’s world.

In his welcome address, the National President of ASALLIN, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Imam, reaffirmed that Arabic is a living language that continues to evolve alongside global civilisation.

He stated that ASALLIN is committed to developing innovative teaching methods to enhance Arabic education in Nigeria.

Prof. Imam also praised Ilorin for its rich academic heritage and thanked Prof. Egbewole for the hospitality extended to ASALLIN members during the Conference.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Shaykh Lukman Alade Jimoh, who is also the Vice Chancellor of the Kwara State University, Malete, described the 19th International Conference of ASALLIN as a milestone for the advancement of Arabic knowledge in Nigeria.

He noted that AI and modern technology have the potential to revolutionise teaching, enhance research opportunities, and improve education.

However, the KWASU Vice Chancellor advised scholars to use technology responsibly, ensuring that it serves as a tool for knowledge enhancement rather than a distraction.

Prof. Jimoh also commended the Department of Arabic and Transnational Studies, University of Ilorin, for hosting the Conference and encouraged ASALLIN members to embrace technology in a way that strengthens Arabic language education.

The Conference featured the launch of an academic journal and an award presentation to distinguished ASALLIN members in recognition of their contributions to Arabic language and literature in Nigeria.

Some of the dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Vice Chancellor (RTI), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the University Librarian, Prof. Tunde Omopupa; the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh(Dr.) Muhammad Bashir Soliu, OON; the grand Ajanasi of Ilorin, Sheikh Mujitaba Yusuf Bature, among others.