Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities in Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future in Igbo Cultural Milieu
Conference: The 23rd Annual International Conference of the Igbo Studies Association (ISA) (2026)
Presenter(s): Nkechinyere Nwokoye
Presentation Date: May 14, 2026 @ 18:24 PM
Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to reshape societies, economies, and cultural systems worldwide. Within the Igbo cultural milieu, the integration of AI presents both significant challenges and promising prospects in the pursuit of a sustainable and resilient future. The challenges are multifaceted: infrastructural limitations, digital divides, and inadequate policy frameworks hinder equitable access to AI technologies. Additionally, cultural concerns such as the preservation of indigenous knowledge, language, and values raise questions about how AI can be harmonized with Igbo traditions without eroding identity. Ethical dilemmas surrounding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the risk of cultural homogenization further complicate adoption. Yet, the prospects are equally compelling. AI can serve as a catalyst for sustainable development by enhancing agricultural productivity, supporting climate adaptation strategies, and fostering inclusive education. In the Igbo context, AI-driven tools can be harnessed to document and revitalize language, promote cultural heritage, and strengthen community resilience against socio-economic disruptions. Moreover, the communal ethos of Igbo society—anchored in values of solidarity, innovation, and adaptability—provides fertile ground for embedding AI in ways that reinforce sustainability and resilience. This abstract argues that the future of AI in Igbo communities depends on a balanced approach: one that addresses infrastructural and ethical challenges while leveraging cultural strengths to ensure that technological progress aligns with local aspirations. Ultimately, AI offers a pathway to a future where tradition and innovation converge to build resilient societies rooted in cultural identity and sustainable development.
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