By Deborah Asantewaah SARFO
The United Nations (UN) has cautioned member-state to ensure that they do not replace the essential human elements of learning in the educational system with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In a statement issued to commemorate the International Day of Education, the UN reiterated that unlocking the power of AI “depends on keeping human agency — and human rights — at the heart of this rapidly-evolving technology”.
The UN further emphasised that as AI-driven systems become more powerful, human intention and machine-driven impacts can easily misalign.
According to the UN, education is a basic human right and an essential building block for every person to reach their full potential, and for societies and economies to grow and flourish.
The International Day of Education is commemorated yearly on the January 24 to celebrate the role of education for peace and development. This year’s edition is held under the theme ‘AI and Education: Preserving Agency in the World of Automation’.
It further noted that the recently adopted Global Digital Compact outlines some critical steps to help ensure that humanity retains control over the development and governance of AI, rather than the other way around.
In salvaging the issue, it has urged all to “commit to keeping humanity at the centre of education systems, everywhere”.
However, it underscored the power of AI in education, outlining its potential in assisting students of all ages in their learning journey.
Additionally, the UN has asked member-states to ensure that AI assists students and teachers through access to information, cutting-edge curricula and other learning tools.
For students and teachers to fully optimise the potential of AI in their learning journey and career life, it noted that countries must work to guarantee that all users have the tools and knowledge required to use this technology smartly, safely and ethically.
