“STOP Using AI In Schools!” – Education Stakeholders Warn Teachers
Education stakeholders have warned instructors against over-reliance on AI, particularly in the classroom, emphasizing that the technology should complement rather than replace teachers entirely.
The call came during the Freedom 250 EdTech Innovators Summit at the Kenya School of Government.
Educators, policymakers, technology businesses, university leaders, and development partners gathered to explore the future of digital learning in Kenya.
While artificial intelligence was heavily discussed, stakeholders emphasized that educational technology goes beyond AI.
This includes digital materials, learning management systems, virtual and blended learning, assessment platforms, and other technologies that aim to enhance teaching and learning.
Speaking during the summit, Tufunzeni Executive Director Dennis Omolo said technology should be viewed as a tool that empowers teachers instead of replacing them.
“Technology will not replace great teachers. It should help teachers teach better and learners learn better,” Omolo said.
“For us, the real question is not simply whether schools should adopt technology, but how we ensure that innovation improves real learning outcomes and reaches every learner.”
Education stakeholders noted that the growing adoption of AI in education must be accompanied by investments in teacher training to ensure educators can integrate digital tools effectively into classroom instruction.
They also identified four critical areas Kenya must address before technology can be fully embraced in schools.
This includes strengthening digital infrastructure, improving affordable internet connectivity, developing locally relevant digital content and implementing inclusive policies that ensure learners in rural and underserved communities are not left behind.
According to participants, responsible adoption of AI and other education technologies will depend on equipping teachers with the skills needed to use digital tools while maintaining meaningful interaction with learners.
The stakeholders further observed that many promising education technology solutions fail to gain traction because they are developed without sufficient engagement with teachers and schools.
ALSO READ:
- Moi University Lecturers Demand Apology After VC Allegedly Calls Them Parasites
- Mt Kenya Business Mogul Gifts DCP’s Gachagua A Brand-New Vehicle For Political Travels
- “STOP Using AI In Schools!” – Education Stakeholders Warn Teachers
- Murkomen Issues Fresh Directive On Hiring Chiefs After Recent Gazette Notice
- Matatu Driver, Conductor On The Run After Attack On Traffic Cop
This makes collaboration between innovators and educators essential.
The summit also highlighted emerging digital solutions developed by Kenyan innovators, allowing teachers and school leaders to interact with platforms supporting school management, digital learning, assessment, STEM education and personalised learning.
Drew Giblin, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy Nairobi, said partnerships between institutions remain critical in expanding access to quality education and innovation.
“The United States is proud to work with Kenyan partners to support innovation, professional development, English language learning and educational exchange,” Giblin said.
“As we mark America’s 250th anniversary, we are reminded that innovation thrives when people, institutions and communities work together to solve shared challenges.”
Schools were also urged to prepare learners for a rapidly changing labour market by strengthening critical thinking, creativity, digital literacy, communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills alongside the responsible use of technology.
“STOP Using AI In Schools!” – Education Stakeholders Warn Teachers
