BOKSBURG, Gauteng — The integration of artificial intelligence in education must be embraced to support educators, but the technology can never replace the teaching profession, according to Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube.
Speaking at the 9th Biennial International Forum of Teacher Regulatory Authorities Conference, Gwarube emphasized that while AI offers significant benefits, it should never come at the expense of human educators. The global gathering, themed around strengthening the teaching profession and teaching councils, brought together international delegates to discuss teacher professionalism, regulations, and ethics.
Gwarube noted that while the education sector cannot ignore rapid technological advancements, the focus must remain on utilizing these tools to improve classroom working environments and ease administrative burdens. She firmly stated that no artificial intelligence system can ever replace an ethical, qualified educator in a classroom setting.
The critical balance between technology and human instruction was a central theme among global education role players. Dr. Ebby Mubanga, representing the global network of national and regional teaching councils, highlighted that maintaining teacher quality remains a vital strategic goal. He explained that while some educational hurdles are unique to specific nations, several core challenges are a global phenomenon. These include managing teacher shortages, ensuring instructional quality, and upholding the professionalism and societal trust required of educators.
Addressing the socioeconomic barriers to implementing these changes, Nomarashiya Caluza stressed the necessity for collaborative leadership and international cooperation. Caluza pointed out that ailing national economies severely impact the teaching profession globally. She raised concerns about how educators can remain professionally empowered and adapt to rapid technological shifts when there is a distinct lack of resources to support quality teaching and learning.
The international forum, which continues to deliberate on these pressing global educational challenges, is scheduled to conclude on Friday.
