Experts call for AI and STEM integration in early childhood education

The International Research Group (IRG) has successfully concluded its 4th International Virtual Conference, bringing together over 174 esteemed academics, researchers, and practitioners from around the world. The two-day event, held between September 17th and 18th, 2025, focused on the theme "Nurturing Future Innovations: Integrating AI and STEM Learning in Early Years."

The conference, moderated by Professor Peter Okebukola and ably assisted by Dr. Adekunle Oladejo, featured a rich program with over 40 speakers and presenters. The event was co-chaired by Lady Dr. Sue Dale Tunnicliffe, Co-Chairperson of the IRG Conference Organising Committee and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, CASTME, and Professor Ibiyinka Ogunlade, Co-Chair of the IRG.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Juma Shabani, Chairman of IRG, emphasized the critical role early childhood education plays in shaping the future of innovation and technological advancement. The conference explored nine sub-themes, including "Reimagining Early Childhood Pedagogy through AI and Digital Tools," "AI Literacy in Early Years through STEM E (Experiences)," and "Cultural Influences and Indigenous Knowledge in Early STEM Education."

Keynote speakers included Professor Maryam Aminu, Professor Uchenna Nzewi, Dr. Uchenna Ugwuoke, and Professor Michael Faborode, among others. On a remarkable note, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede posited that AI should just be a compliment for teaching the early grades and not a supplement nor replacement in order to build the human intelligence of the children. The conference concluded with a strong consensus on the need to prioritize AI and STEM education in early childhood learning.

The organizing committee expressed gratitude to attendees, speakers, and presenters, and special thanks to Sue Dale Tunnicliffe and Professor Ibiyinka Ogunlade for their leadership. The conference provided a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and networking among stakeholders in early childhood education, AI, and STEM.

Key recommendations of the conference include, integration of AI and STEM in early childhood curricula; Continuous professional development programs for educators; AI should just be a supplement for early years teaching and not replacement for the classroom teaching, and lastly, the insights and recommendations from this conference will play a crucial role in shaping the future of early childhood education and innovation.



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