Transforming the teaching and learning of health education in Nigeria with artificial intelligence: Prospect and challenges

This paper examined the prospects and challenges of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into health education in Nigeria. Using an expository design and content analysis approach, the study explored how AI technologies can improve teaching, learning, and health promotion at the basic, senior secondary, and tertiary education levels. The authors discussed major concepts relating to AI and health education, highlighting the relevance of AI-driven tools such as ChatGPT, adaptive learning systems, virtual tutors, chatbots, health diagnostic applications, and other AI-powered educational technologies in enhancing instructional delivery. Findings revealed that AI has significant potential to improve health education through personalized learning experiences, simulation-based instruction, real-time feedback, automated assessment, and interactive learning platforms. AI applications were found to support the teaching of key health education topics such as disease prevention, reproductive health, nutrition, environmental sanitation, sexually transmitted infections, and public health awareness. The paper also showed that AI-enhanced platforms can improve learner engagement, strengthen health literacy, increase accessibility to educational resources, and reduce instructional costs. Despite these benefits, several challenges associated with the use of AI in health education were identified. These include overdependence on technology, reduction in critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills, data privacy and cybersecurity concerns, infrastructural deficiencies, ethical issues, algorithmic bias, and fears of replacing human educators. Inadequate ICT facilities, unstable electricity supply, poor internet connectivity, and insufficient teacher training were also identified as major barriers to effective AI integration in Nigerian schools. The paper concluded that AI can significantly transform health education in Nigeria by improving instructional quality and expanding access to learning opportunities. Recommendation included the development of clear policies, improved ICT infrastructure, continuous teacher training, data protection measures, and equitable access to AI technologies across communities.