On January 24th, International Day of Education, UNESCO highlighted the need for responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education systems. While millions of educators utilize AI-powered tools, less than 10% of institutions have formal policies regarding their use. This gap emphasizes the urgency for planned action.
UNESCO has been at the forefront of discussions on ethics, technology, science, and education. From establishing the World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology (COMEST) to developing the first digital competency framework for teachers nearly two decades ago, the organization has set the standard. In recent years, UNESCO has developed specific guidelines for AI use in teaching and research, as well as ethical recommendations approved by 194 member states. These efforts underline the importance of clear frameworks to ensure AI is inclusive and equitable.
Educational challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean are alarming. Six out of ten sixth-grade students lack basic competencies in reading, math, and science, with the figure rising to eight out of ten in math. These statistics underscore the need for educational transformation. Properly implemented, AI could be part of the solution. Its potential for personalized learning, teacher support, fostering inclusion, and managing education systems more efficiently cannot be underestimated. However, this requires increased investment in education, not just in AI.
Education must be viewed as a strategic investment, backed by an evidence-based approach. This involves not neglecting key areas that research has shown are essential for improving education systems: teacher training, adequate infrastructure, quality pedagogical resources, and education systems with effective governance, sustainable funding, reliable data, and inclusive approaches that promote equity and quality.