Industrial Revolution 4.0: Challenge in the Management of Tertiary Educational Institutions in Nigeria

Abstract

The world has passed through various industrial revolutions where various technologies were initiated to subdue the environment for the betterment of man and society. Industry 4.0 is an epoch where artificial intelligence and robotics perform tasks hitherto preserved for man. It is a period that has changed the educational landscape and enhanced efficiency and productivity. The paper is on Industrial Revolution 4.0, the challenge in managing tertiary educational institutions in Nigeria. The upsurge of smart machines has provided opportunities and benefits for educational institutions and made education affordable, accessible and reach the underserved and the vulnerable in society. The integration of digital technologies not only enhance communication but also assist teachers and students with various platforms for personalized learning at individual pace and connivances. The paper discusses the various challenges inhibiting educational institutions from effective integration of Industry 4.0 as the paucity of funds to procure the basic smart machines and the required skills for integration of digital technology. The researcher opines that procurement of digital technology is not the silver bullet that will enhance efficiency and productivity in educational institutions but the ability to exploit the potential of digital technology. The study suggests that the federal government through legislation should ensure that the budgetary allocation to education should not be less than 20% of an annual budget, constantly review curricula to be in tandem with Industry 4.0 and continuously skilling and reskilling academic lecturers on the use of smart machines.