Artificial Intelligence Awareness and Readiness for Utilization among Students and Lecturers of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State – Nigeria

Abstract The increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into higher education has raised critical questions about the extent to which academic actors are aware of and prepared to utilize emerging technologies, prompting this study on artificial intelligence awareness and readiness for utilization among students and lecturers of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria. The study examined the level of awareness of artificial intelligence and assessed readiness for its utilization in teaching, learning, and research activities. Technology Acceptance Model provided the theoretical foundation for the study. A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was adopted, with a study population comprising students and lecturers of the university. A sample size of 373 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan formula yielding a questionnaire return rate of 320 respondents selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including Pearson Product Moment Correlation and One-Way Analysis of Variance. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between awareness and readiness (r = 0.62, p < 0.05), while significant differences were observed in awareness across faculties (F = 3.45, p < 0.05) and levels of study (F = 4.12, p < 0.05). The findings showed that awareness of artificial intelligence was moderate but largely superficial, while readiness was relatively high in willingness but constrained by limited skills and institutional support. The study concluded that awareness significantly influences readiness, though structural limitations hinder effective utilization. It recommended among others structured capacity-building programmes and the development of clear institutional policies to enhance responsible and effective integration of artificial intelligence in the university.