A renowned Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 6G researcher based in Denmark, Professor Ramoni Adeogun, has called for a fundamental rethinking of the purpose of education, urging schools and universities to prioritise the development of innovators and problem-solvers who can transform their communities rather than simply producing graduates in search of employment.
Professor Adeogun made the submission while speaking as the guest on Perspectives with Simiat Abaru, a public affairs and development programme dedicated to exploring topical issues shaping education, leadership, technology and national development.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey from Agosasa in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State to becoming a leading researcher at Aalborg University, Denmark, Adeogun challenged the increasingly popular narrative that "education is a scam." He argued that such perceptions arise when education is viewed only as a means of securing paid employment instead of as a tool for solving real-life problems and creating lasting value.
According to him, the true purpose of education is to equip individuals with the knowledge, creativity and critical thinking skills needed to identify societal challenges, develop practical solutions and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
"Education should not merely produce degree holders. It should produce people who can transform their communities and create solutions to the challenges around them," he said.
Sharing his personal story, Professor Adeogun recounted the numerous obstacles he overcame on his path to academic excellence, including financial hardship, unemployment, professional disappointments and living with a stammer. Despite these setbacks, he remained focused on his goals, eventually building an internationally recognised career in advanced telecommunications and Artificial Intelligence research.
He encouraged young Nigerians not to allow difficult circumstances to define their future, stressing that resilience, perseverance and continuous learning remain indispensable qualities for long-term success.
The AI researcher also urged young people to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation, explaining that genuine success should not be measured solely by financial wealth but by the value individuals create and the positive impact they have on society.
Speaking on the future of technology, Professor Adeogun highlighted the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and 6G wireless technology, describing them as game changers that will redefine healthcare, education, manufacturing, transportation and communication.
He explained that 6G technology will enable breakthroughs such as remote robotic surgery, autonomous factories, ultra-fast intelligent communication systems and highly connected smart cities capable of improving productivity and quality of life.
Professor Adeogun, however, expressed concern about the current state of Nigeria's education system, describing many academic curricula as outdated and insufficiently aligned with the realities of the digital economy.
He advocated the adoption of problem-based learning from the first year of tertiary education, arguing that students should be challenged to solve practical societal problems throughout their academic journey rather than relying solely on theoretical instruction.
The professor also called for improved funding of higher education, better remuneration for lecturers and increased investment in research and innovation to reduce the growing wave of brain drain affecting Nigeria's academic sector.
Beyond his academic work, Adeogun highlighted the impact of The Adeogun Education Foundation (TADEF), a non-profit organisation committed to expanding educational opportunities for young people through scholarships, reading competitions, mentorship programmes, school outreach initiatives and support for disadvantaged students.
He disclosed that the foundation plans to expand its activities by recruiting more volunteer mentors, strengthening strategic partnerships and reaching more underserved communities across Nigeria.
Participants during the interactive session echoed the need for parents, educators and community leaders to redefine success beyond material wealth. They argued that celebrating integrity, innovation and service would help discourage cybercrime and inspire more young Nigerians to pursue education as a tool for societal transformation.
The programme concluded with renewed commitments from participants to support TADEF's mentorship network and educational initiatives, reinforcing the shared belief that education remains one of the most powerful instruments for youth empowerment, innovation and sustainable community development.
Perspectives with Simiat Abaru is a public affairs platform committed to promoting informed conversations on education, leadership, governance, technology and other contemporary issues affecting Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
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