Msaka calls for responsible use of AI in higher education

Minister of Education, Science and Technology Bright Msaka has called for the responsible and inclusive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education, saying the technology should improve education without increasing existing inequalities. Msaka made the remarks on Tuesday when he delivered opening remarks at the Global Smart Education Conference at Beijing Normal University in Beijing, China. He said AI is changing how students learn, how lecturers teach and conduct research, and how institutions make decisions. The Minister said AI can help provide personalised learning, support students with different needs, improve research and innovation, and increase access to quality education. However, he warned that the use of AI also raises concerns over academic cheating, misinformation, data privacy, intellectual property and unfair computer-based decisions. Msaka said Malawi and other developing countries must ensure that everyone can benefit from AI regardless of their location or income. He also called for education systems to equip students with technical skills, critical thinking, creativity and ethical judgement, while stressing that AI should support teachers and lecturers rather than replace them.