New Google Search data indicates a sharp rise in Nigerian students turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for academic support, with searches combining “AI” and “studying” rising by more than 200 percent compared with 2024.
The data, released at the start of the school year, shows students are using AI to tackle subjects such as Chemistry, Mathematics, and Languages. Searches for “AI + Chemistry” increased by 50 percent, “AI + Maths” and “AI + Languages” rose by 30 percent each, while “AI + Grammar” searches grew by 20 percent.
Students are also seeking practical tools for schoolwork, with trending queries including “AI tutor for students,” “free AI tools for studying,” and “useful AI prompts for studying.” At the same time, broader interest in the technology itself grew, with searches for “what is the full meaning of AI” up 80 percent and “who is the father of AI” up 70 percent.
Academic integrity also emerged as a concern, with searches for “AI detection” soaring by 290 percent.
Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa Director, said the trend highlights how students are not only using AI to get answers but also to deepen their understanding of complex topics. “This curiosity is key to fostering a new generation of innovators,” he said.
