(A report by Abdul O. Umar)
Ankpa, June 11, 2025 — The School of Arts and Social Sciences, Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, made history as it held its 1st International Conference from June 7th to 11th, 2025, at the newly completed Theatre Arts Complex of the institution. Themed “Humanities, Technology, and Global Challenges in the 21st Century,” the landmark event brought together scholars, researchers, and thought leaders from across Nigeria and beyond.
The five-day conference was declared open by the Provost of the College, Dr. Fasagba Paul Femi, who lauded the School of Arts and Social Sciences for initiating a timely and intellectually rich conversation around the interplay between the humanities and the rapidly evolving global technological landscape. Dr. Fasagba noted that the conference was not only in line with the institution’s vision for academic excellence but also a bold step towards repositioning the college as a center for global discourse.
The conference featured two internationally renowned Lead Paper Presenters: Prof. Joana Barros, a distinguished scholar from the United Kingdom, and Prof. Armstrong Adukwu Idachaba, former Acting Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Nigeria. Both presenters delivered groundbreaking papers that emphasized the urgent need for a harmonious integration of humanities and technology to tackle 21st-century global issues such as climate change, digital inequality, misinformation, and ethical governance.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Edward Agbo Omodu, a renowned academic and cultural policy advocate, challenged African institutions to reimagine education in ways that prepare students for the ethical complexities of a tech-driven world. “We must not abandon the humanities,” he stressed, “because they are the soul of society. Technology without human values becomes a threat rather than a tool.”
The host of the conference, Dr. Idakpo Sunday, Dean of the School of Arts and Social Sciences, expressed gratitude to the college leadership, presenters, and delegates for making the event a success. In his words, “This conference marks a turning point for the School. We are opening up to the world and taking part in global conversations that matter.”
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC), chaired by Dr. Atule Egwu Emmanuel, was commended for its professionalism and excellent coordination of the event. Participants praised the smooth logistics, rich program content, and vibrant cultural performances that showcased the diverse heritage of Kogi State.
The conference featured several breakout sessions, panel discussions, poster presentations, and a cultural night. Academics, postgraduate students, and policy makers engaged in robust dialogue on topics such as digital literacy in Africa, decolonizing education, the role of artificial intelligence in human development, and sustainable cultural practices.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Idakpo Sunday announced that the conference would be an annual event, with the 2026 edition already in planning. He encouraged scholars and stakeholders to sustain the momentum and continue bridging the gap between the arts and technology.
The 1st International Conference of the School of Arts and Social Sciences has been described by attendees as a trailblazing event that will leave a lasting imprint on the intellectual landscape of not only Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, but also the wider academic community.
*Communication and Strategic planning Unit
KSCOE Ankpa.*
