Professor Toyin Falola has urged African universities to embrace ethical artificial intelligence and blend indigenous knowledge with modern science to secure the continent’s intellectual future.
Speaking at the 17th Convocation Lecture of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, titled “The Future of Knowledge,” Falola said African higher education must confront the lingering effects of colonialism, which introduced Western-centric models that sidelined indigenous philosophies.
He argued that universities risk continued intellectual dependency if they fail to adopt a “pluriversal” approach one that elevates African wisdom alongside global scientific methods. “Africa can achieve true intellectual independence only by moving beyond Western epistemic dominance,” he said.
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Falola emphasized that indigenous knowledge systems rooted in ethics, spirituality, creativity, and communal values—should guide advances in science and technology. He described this integration as essential for creating humane and inclusive knowledge environments.
Addressing the growing role of Artificial Intelligence, Falola noted that while AI offers powerful tools for collaboration and efficiency, it also poses dangers including misinformation, unequal digital access, and deepening epistemic dependency. He urged African institutions to develop ethical frameworks to govern AI use.
He further called on universities and policymakers to equip students with critical thinking, digital literacy, and strong moral grounding. “Knowledge must serve justice, dignity, and survival,” he said, adding that it must remain relevant to major global issues such as inequality, climate change, and public health crises.
