Artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense potential to revolutionize human life but poses significant risks if mismanaged, according to Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Education. Giannini emphasized that each technological revolution, including AI, has broad social and educational implications, transforming the way people live and learn.
While AI offers opportunities to enhance areas such as education, healthcare, and transportation, it also comes with dangers, much like the discovery of fire. If not properly regulated and supported by investments, AI could exacerbate the global digital divide.
Giannini stressed the importance of establishing strong frameworks to govern AI use in education, ensuring its safe and effective integration in schools and universities. She highlighted the challenges AI brings to assessment systems and curriculum content, raising ethical concerns about its impact on learning and the role of teachers in the future.
UNESCO's recent guidance on generative AI in education outlines actions for protecting data privacy, updating copyright laws, and setting age limits for AI use. Giannini noted that as AI becomes more accessible, the need for specialized technical skills may diminish, but cognitive and socio-emotional abilities will become increasingly vital in interacting with technology.
As AI continues to evolve, Giannini underscored the necessity of maintaining control over its development to ensure it benefits humanity.
