Stakeholders have stressed the need to harness technology and Artificial Intelligence to elevate nursing education and practice in Nigeria.
The stakeholders include the Special Adviser on Health to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi; the Oyo State Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni; the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwasherimi Ajetumobi; the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin and the President of Alpha Alpha Upsilon Chapter, Prof. Prisca Olabisi Adejumo.
They made the call at the second International Scientific Conference of the Alpha Alpha Upsilon Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, an award as well as induction ceremony at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.
They emphasised the urgent need for Nigerian nurses to embrace emerging technologies in enhancing nursing education and practice.
The stakeholders underscored the importance of technology in improving patient care, education, and the nursing profession as a whole.
In a keynote address, the Special Adviser on Health to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, Ogunyemi, highlighted the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming nursing education and practice.
Ogunyemi noted that despite the economic situation, lack of adequate funding, and the ‘japa’ syndrome, embracing technology could help advance nursing education and practice.
She harped on the need to leverage on the power of emerging technologies such as the Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing nursing profession in the country.
Ogunyemi said: “As we stand at the intersection of healthcare and technology, we are faced with unprecedented opportunities to transform the way we approach patient care, education, and research.
“Despite the economic realities, Lack of adequate funding, the ‘japa’ syndrome we have to ensure that development in technology has to continue.
“In nursing education, we must embrace technology to enhance student learning outcomes, improve simulation training, and foster virtual collaboration.
“By leveraging AI-powered adaptive learning systems, virtual reality, and data analytics, we can create personalized learning pathways that prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare.
“In practice, technology enables us to deliver patient-centered care that is more efficient, effective, and accessible. Telehealth, and predictive analytics are just a few examples of how we can revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
“However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that come with technological advancements, including data privacy concerns, cyber-security threats, and the digital divide.
“As healthcare professionals, we must prioritize ethical considerations and ensure that technology is harnessed to augment, rather than replace, human care.
“Let us embrace this transformative journey, harnessing technology to empower nurses as leaders, innovators, and champions of high-quality patient care. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare and advance the frontiers of what is possible’’.
In her welcome address, the President , Alpha Alpha Upsilon Chapter, Prof. Prisca Olabisi Adejumo, said the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) is the second-largest nursing organization in the world.
She said this year’s theme, “Advancing Healthcare Frontiers: Embracing Technology for Innovative and Transformative Nursing Education and
Practice” reflects our collective commitment to advancing the nursing profession through scientific inquiry and practical application.
In her goodwill message, the Oyo State Head of Service, Oni, emphasized the government’s recognition of the pivotal role of technology in enhancing nursing education and practice.
She stated: “The integration of technology is essential for improving patient outcomes and strengthening the resilience of the healthcare system.”
According to her, significant resources have been allocated to modernising nursing schools and training facilities across the State in line with the administration’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Agenda of the Omituntun 2.0 administration.
“As of 2023, the State Government has invested over N500 million in upgrading infrastructure and acquiring state-of-the-art equipment for nursing education.
This includes advanced simulation labs, digital learning platforms, and specialized training programs in collaboration with renowned institutions and technology providers.
She maintained that the integration of technology in nursing education and practice is essential for improving patient outcomes and strengthening the resilience of the healthcare system.
She said: “By equipping our nurses with technological competencies, we enhance their ability to deliver efficient, patient-centered care. This initiative not only improves healthcare delivery but also contributes to the overall well-being of our society.
“While government funding is crucial, sustainable development in nursing education requires collective effort.
“We urge philanthropists and other stakeholders in the private sector to join hands with government initiatives. Together, we can build robust and technologically-driven nursing that meets the evolving healthcare needs of our nation.”
In a remark, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi, acknowledged the vital role of technology, stating, “Technology is vital in advancing patient care, education, and nursing practice.”
He assured the government’s continued support and funding to ensure the successful integration of technology in the nursing profession.
Fadeyi said the state government acknowledged the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure including technology to enhance patient care.
“Let us embrace and enhance the power of technology to advance the nursing profession and practice. With this , we can empower the next generation of nurses and improve patient care.
“Don’t forget, technology is a tool, but compassion, empathy and kindness must be part of our profession. We must do our best to care for our parents,” he concluded.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwasherimi Ajetumobi, echoed the vision of the state government, where “technology and human expertise work together to deliver exceptional healthcare.”
She emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between the government, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and professional organizations like the Sigma Theta Tau International to realize this vision.
The Commissioner said further that the vision can only be achieved through collaborative efforts between the government, educational institutions, health care providers and professional organizations such as the Sigma Theta Tau International.
” Let us embrace the opportunities that technology presents, let us be pioneers in transforming nursing education and practice, setting new standards of excellence in in healthcare, together we can advance the frontiers of healthcare and ensure a healthier future for all”
Awards of excellence were presented to deserving Nigerians who have impacted positively in the profession as well as induction of new members of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honours Society of Nursing.
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