Education is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. It is the key to unlocking opportunities, empowering individuals, and driving positive change in societies around the world. The International Day of Education, celebrated annually on January 24th, was established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about the importance of equitable and inclusive education for all.

This global observance serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, promoting gender equity, fostering peace and understanding, and creating a more just and prosperous world. 

It is a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize education and ensure that every child, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to quality learning opportunities.

(See how WAAW programs are working to make equitable education a reality in Africa)

Education is a pathway to personal growth and fulfillment and a catalyst for economic and social progress. 

It equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world and contribute to the advancement of their communities. Education empowers people to make informed decisions, embrace diversity, and become active and responsible global citizens.

Theme for 2025: AI and Education – Preserving Human Agency

The theme for the International Day of Education in 2025 is “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to grow every day, its integration into education has become shockingly rapid and widespread. 

While AI has the potential to revolutionize teaching and learning, it also raises concerns about preserving the human elements that have long been the bedrock of education.

Preserving human agency in education means empowering learners to take an active role in their educational journey, giving room for self-directed learning, and cultivating a sense of ownership and responsibility. 

It involves equipping students with the skills to find their way in an automated world, enabling them to think critically with their human brains

. By striking the right balance between leveraging AI’s capabilities and preserving the human essence of education, we can create a future where technology enhances rather than diminishes the richness of the learning experience.

At WAAW Foundation, we understand the dual impact of technology. On one hand, it provides access to cutting-edge tools that enable personalized learning, foster innovation, and connect underserved communities to global knowledge hubs. On the other hand, we remain committed to ensuring that these technologies are implemented in a way that strengthens, rather than replaces, human connections and values in education.

Preserving Human Agency: Striking the Right Balance

 

The integration of AI in education presents an undoubtedly excellent opportunity to enhance learning experiences and streamline processes. 

However, it also raises concerns about the potential erosion of human agency – the ability of individuals to make choices and shape their destinies. 

It is important to strike a delicate balance that preserves the essential human elements of education.

The integration of AI in education presents both opportunities and challenges. 

While AI can streamline processes like scheduling and personalize learning experiences, it is the human educators who inspire, motivate, and impart values. At WAAW Foundation, our STEM Educator Training Program equips teachers with both technological and human-centric tools to foster critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning in students.

Moreover, our STEM Chapters provide a platform for young girls to engage in collaborative problem-solving and leadership, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in an automated world. By combining AI-powered tools with mentorship and real-world learning experiences, WAAW ensures that technology supports, rather than overshadows, the human essence of education.

(WAAW STEM Educator/Teacher Training)

Moreover, over-reliance on AI could stifle critical thinking, creativity, and independent problem-solving skills.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a mutual relationship between AI and human educators, where technology enhances and supports the human elements of education, rather than replacing them entirely. 

Case Studies of Successful Integration of AI in Education

These case studies demonstrate that AI can be effectively integrated into education while preserving human agency and expertise. 

Calls to Action and Conclusion

As we want to curb the adversity that AI could bring, if not properly and responsibly managed, all stakeholders must take proactive steps to ensure a harmonious integration of technology while preserving the essence of human agency. Here are some calls to action:

For Individuals:

  • Embrace a growth mindset and commit to lifelong learning, continuously upskilling and adapting to new technologies.
  • Cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills that machines cannot replicate.

For Educational Institutions:

  • Invest in professional development programs to equip educators with the necessary skills to leverage AI effectively. 
  • Prioritize the development of human-centered curricula that balance technology with essential soft skills.

For Policymakers:

  • Develop robust ethical frameworks and guidelines for the responsible development and deployment of AI in education.
  • Promote digital inclusion and ensure equitable access to AI-enabled educational resources.
  • Incentivize research and development in AI and education, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

As we celebrate the International Day of Education in 2025, we invite you to join us in advocating for equitable education that balances innovation with humanity. WAAW Foundation’s mission to empower women and girls in STEM through accessible education is a testament to the potential of preserving human agency in a world increasingly shaped by technology. 

Together, we can create a future where AI enhances education without compromising its human essence.

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