President Bola Tinubu has advised students in Saint Lucia to remain committed to education and intellectual development, warning that ignorance is not a viable alternative to learning.

Tinubu also addressed the growing role of artificial intelligence in learning and problem-solving, cautioning students not to abandon critical thinking in favour of technology.

He gave the advice during a visit to Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries on Tuesday, as part of his state visit to the Caribbean nation.

During his visit to Saint Lucia, President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Saint Lucia in education, culture, and technology.

Tinubu visited the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Morne Fortune, Castries, on Tuesday, the fourth day of his State Visit to Saint Lucia.

He announced a cultural exchange opportunity for the college’s performing arts group following a stage performance of The Drum Maker, based on the work of Saint Lucian playwright Kendel Hippolyte.

“I offer a trip—at their convenience—for the performing arts group to come and mix with the talents that we have in Nigeria,” President Tinubu said, clarifying that the invitation is independent of the tuition-free scholarship programme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Acknowledging education as the most effective weapon against poverty, the President encouraged students to be bold, consistent, and disciplined in their pursuit of knowledge.

“Nothing like education can fight poverty. If anybody tells you that education is not crucial, ask the person to try ignorance,” he said.

He stressed the importance of time management, perseverance, and critical thinking: “What you get out of this college is your own that you can use to achieve anything in life. Just be determined, consistent, and bold. Be intellectually inquisitive.”

President Tinubu urged students not to abandon analytical thinking because of the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI).

“Don’t depend on AI technology to find you the solution. Go through like a recipe in the kitchen, one after the other. Then you solve the problem. Once you solve the problem, you see satisfaction in yourself and pride in achievement.”

Highlighting the deep historical and cultural links between Africa and the Caribbean, the President reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to Afrocentric policies and South-South cooperation.

“I believe Nigeria will collaborate with Saint Lucia to make a difference in the lives of our Black race. In our national anthem, we pledge to hand over a banner without stain to the generation that comes after us. We will give you that banner if you work hard, honestly, and consistently.”