Blockchain and artificial intelligence offer a range of benefits, from improving student engagement to enhancing administrative efficiency.
This is just a scratch on the surface of what these cutting-edge technologies could offer in the education sector.
Both technologies, if utilized can transform education through the metaverse by creating virtual learning environments that simulate real-world experiences.
The metaverse comes with capabilities to reimagine education while unlocking new opportunities for students and educators in Africa, and that is what Hakeem Disu is bringing to the table with Edublok.
Edublok founded by Hakeem Disu is an education platform, that provides blockchain and Artificial intelligence education, as well as training to empower university and college students.
Edublok wants to help African students to stay ahead of the curve and gain a competitive advantage in the job market and sets to do this through its alternative mode of teaching through Metaverse.
As explained by Hakeem who is also a co-founder at Koinwa, a crypto exchange platform, Edublok 3D Virtual learning in the metaverse could increase accessibility for students with disabilities or those who live in remote areas, allowing them to participate in classroom activities and discussions from anywhere in the world as the major aim is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Compared to the traditional classroom teaching, Edublok is on a mission to provide a different way of teaching and imparting knowledge to students as it prepares African youth for the future through data-informed experiences to the African education community through its “INTELLIGENT EXPERIENCES AND COMMUNITY BUILDING INITIATIVE” via the metaverse.
Teaching students through the metaverse can be more accessible and flexible than traditional classroom-based learning.
Students can participate in virtual learning environments from anywhere with an internet connection, and at any time.
This can potentially increase access to education, particularly for those who may face barriers to attending traditional classrooms, such as those who live in remote areas or have physical disabilities.
Also, it provides a more immersive and interactive learning experience. Students can explore virtual environments, interact with virtual objects and characters, and collaborate with other students from around the world. This can potentially increase the learning experience and engagement
According to the founder, the startup is focused on blockchain and artificial intelligence because the platform noticed this course of study is not included in the academic curriculum in Nigeria’s Ministry of Education.
“That is why we focused on these 2 aspects to prepare the youth for the future and provide the right education and materials for them to compete favorably with their counterparts in the world”
Edublok is in discussion for partnership with some universities in Nigeria and Kenya. According to the founder, most of these schools are excited because the platform is integrating most of these schools’ academic classes into the metaverse I.e. students can start attending classes in the metaverse(3D virtual in person) through their mobile phone and laptop, which will help increase learning experience and engagement of student.
On one of its tours to Kenya, the Edublok team lectured students at Strathmore University Nairobi, Kenya about blockchain use cases in Wildlife conservation in the Masai Mara and also shared materials on its book Titled: How Blockchain is Solving Real-life African Problem
The startup is also providing low-cost Virtual 3D libraries for schools that don’t have libraries for some courses.
“We are also building a virtual laboratory to help students to collaborate with other scientists in the
world and also help reduce the hazard of chemicals harming students during hypothesis”
On the role of blockchain and artificial intelligence can play in addressing some of the challenges faced by African countries, Hakeem said that the combination of blockchain and AI can help to create new economic opportunities in Africa.
In his words, “Blockchain technology can provide a secure and transparent platform for financial transactions, which can help to increase financial inclusion in Africa Secondly, AI can play a significant role in addressing unemployment and poverty in Africa.”
AI-powered solutions can help to improve the efficiency of various industries, such as agriculture, healthcare, and education, which are essential for the economic development of African countries.
For instance, AI-powered farming technologies can help to increase crop yields and reduce waste, while AI-powered healthcare systems can help to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
In his final words, Hakeem urged young Africans who want to pursue careers in blockchain and artificial intelligence to have a strong foundation in computer science and math, practical experience, networking, and a willingness to learn.
“They must be willing to adapt to new technologies and approaches to stay relevant in the industry. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with professionals in the field. Collaborate on projects with like-minded individuals to expand your knowledge and build your network.”
Featured Image: Hakeem Disu, Founder and CEO, Edublok
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