On International Day of Education, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu shared a compelling message on the transformative potential of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in education. This year’s theme, “AI and education: Preserving human agency in a world of automation,” highlights the importance of leveraging technological advancements while ensuring the essence of human creativity and individuality remains intact.
The International Day of Education, celebrated annually on 24 January, highlights education as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. It also serves as a reminder of the need for innovative approaches to equip learners with skills for a rapidly evolving world. As global conversations increasingly focus on the intersection of education and technology, the Maldives is charting a course to embrace these changes.
AI and Education: A Necessary Evolution
The advent of AI has revolutionised numerous industries, and education is no exception. From personalised learning platforms to virtual tutors, AI offers immense potential to make learning more accessible, engaging, and effective. However, it also presents challenges, such as maintaining the human connection in education and addressing ethical concerns around its use.
President Muizzu emphasised that the Maldives, as a geographically dispersed island nation, has a unique opportunity to leverage AI and other advanced technologies to bridge gaps in access and quality. He highlighted initiatives such as the digitisation of textbooks, the adoption of competency-based hybrid learning models, and the integration of virtual reality in classrooms. These efforts aim to ensure that Maldivian students are not only future-ready but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to a technology-driven world.
A Time to Embrace Change
Globally, the integration of AI into education is reshaping how knowledge is imparted and received. Adaptive learning systems, for instance, analyse student performance in real-time to provide tailored content, making learning both efficient and effective. Virtual reality and gamified education platforms are creating immersive experiences that make abstract concepts tangible.
For the Maldives, adopting these tools is no longer a matter of choice but necessity. As the world rapidly moves towards automation, embracing AI in education ensures that the nation’s youth remain competitive on a global scale. The government’s focus on enhancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education reflects this commitment.
Recognising Educators and the Path Ahead
In his message, President Muizzu expressed heartfelt gratitude to educators, acknowledging their vital role in shaping young minds and building a resilient society. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring quality education that nurtures creativity, instils values, and prepares students for an uncertain future.
The International Day of Education is also a call to action. It reminds nations of the collective responsibility to provide inclusive and equitable education for all. For the Maldives, this means not only embracing AI and digital technology but also addressing challenges such as internet connectivity in remote islands and the need for teacher training in modern pedagogical approaches.
Balancing Technology with Humanity
While the potential of AI in education is vast, preserving human agency remains critical. The President’s message highlighted the importance of maintaining the human essence in a world increasingly shaped by automation. As education systems evolve, ensuring that technology complements rather than replaces human creativity, empathy, and critical thinking will be paramount.
As the Maldives celebrates the International Day of Education, it stands at a pivotal moment in its journey. By embracing technology and innovation while preserving the core values of education, the nation is poised to empower its future generations and carve a path toward sustainable development.
