Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (4) in Tertiary Institutions in South-South Zone of Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) in tertiary institutions across the South-South zone of Nigeria. The research adopted a descriptive survey design to examine six research questions focusing on AI integration in teaching and learning, its role in promoting inclusive education, its effectiveness in assessment, its influence on administrative efficiency, implementation challenges, and strategies for enhancing AI relevance in education. The target population comprised 809 administrators, from which a sample of 500 (approximately 61.8%) was selected using simple random sampling. Two researcher-developed instruments—the Artificial Intelligence Education Integration Questionnaire (AIEIQ) and the AI for Educational Development Assessment Scale (AI-EDAS)—were used to collect data. Both instruments were subjected to content and construct validation by three experts in Educational Technology and Measurement & Evaluation. A pilot study involving 30 non-sample administrators yielded Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.84 and 0.87, indicating high reliability. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation). Results revealed a high extent of AI integration in teaching, learning, assessment, and administration. However, infrastructural gaps, limited technical skills, and funding constraints were identified as major challenges to AI implementation. Effective strategies to enhance AI relevance included staff training, curriculum integration, and investment in infrastructure. The study concluded that AI significantly supports the attainment of SDG 4, but its potential is limited by systemic barriers. It recommended that school administrators invest in digital infrastructure, implement regular AI training programs, develop institutional AI policies, and build partnerships with tech companies to ensure sustained and equitable AI adoption in education.