education
Australian educationist Catherine Bamidele has warned secondary school students against the excessive use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their studies.
She says that heavy reliance on AI deprives young people of critical thinking, innovation, and true intellectual growth.
Bamidele, a counselor and child protection advocate, gave this advice on Saturday at the graduation and awards ceremony of Bezalel Generation International School (BGIS) in Jikwoyi, Abuja.
She urged her students to focus on reading and working on themselves instead.
“Now, when I’m given an assignment, I just copy and paste. There’s no brainstorming or reasoning involved, and it doesn’t test my IQ.
“You can’t be creative if you’re totally dependent on the finished product of someone else’s brain,” Bamidele said.
She emphasized the importance of reading and critical thinking as essential tools for personal and career development.
He also pointed out that while technology has provided unprecedented learning opportunities, students must learn self-discipline and moderation in managing technology, social media and personal freedom.
She pointed out that achieving long-term goals requires planning, smart decision-making, and continued practice, not just wishes or social media distractions.
In his address, the Chief Executive Officer of BGIS, Mr. Modupe Adetunji, advised the graduates to remain resilient and maintain academic integrity and moral values.
Mr. Adetunji urged them to build on the solid foundation laid for their transition into higher education.
“When you go to university, you’ll be alone.
“There are no teachers chasing you, but don’t forget the strong foundation you were given in your life at Bezalel,” she said.
Mr. Adetunji also called on secondary school students transferring to senior high schools to remain dedicated and focused on their studies.
“Your preparation starts now. You’re on a whole other level. You have to prepare for the job ahead,” she said.
Earlier, the chairman of the event, Dr. Abiodun Adebanjo, appealed to parents to continue investing in their children’s education despite the economic hardships.
“As parents, we need to understand that every investment we make in education is vitally important to our children.
“I know times are tough, but the sacrifices you make for your child’s education are not in vain. They are worth it in all the ramifications,” he said.
Samson Otunubi, Chief Examiner of General Mathematics at the West African Examinations Council, Gwagwalada Center, Abuja, also dispelled the misconception that Mathematics is a difficult subject.
Otunubi described mathematics as one of the simplest subjects, but stressed the need for consistent practice. (South)
A.I.
July 26, 2026
Tags: Dr. Abiodun Adebanjo Mr. Samson Otunubi Mr. Catherine Bamidele Mr. Modupe Adetunji
