Saudi Education: The teacher is the foundation, and artificial intelligence is an enabling tool
In a renewed affirmation of the centrality of the human role in the educational process, despite the tremendous technological advancements, the Saudi Ministry of Education, during its active participation in the International Conference on the Teaching Profession in the Sultanate of Oman, emphasized that the teacher remains the "beating heart" and the primary agent in creating a lasting educational impact and ensuring the quality of learning. This came amidst heated global discussions about the role of modern technologies, with the Ministry clarifying that artificial intelligence is a supportive enabling tool and can in no way replace the human and leadership role of the teacher.
Global context and rapidly evolving technological challenges
These statements come at a time when the world is witnessing radical transformations in education, driven by the development of generative artificial intelligence technologies. The Kingdom's participation in this international event is of particular importance, as the conference seeks to chart a roadmap that balances maximizing the benefits of technology with preserving authentic educational values. This event serves as a regional and international platform for exchanging expertise on how to harness technology to serve humanity, not the other way around, reflecting a growing awareness that technology is a means, not an end in itself.
Saudi Vision: Building people before buildings
The Deputy Minister of Education for Public Education, Dr. Hassan Khurami, reviewed the pioneering Saudi experience in developing the teaching profession and educational leadership, which aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to build a vibrant society and a thriving economy. Dr. Khurami explained that the national education system is based on a "sustainable education" strategy, which goes beyond simply transferring knowledge; it focuses on enhancing the quality of educational outcomes and keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, while upholding the pivotal role of the teacher as a leader of change.
He noted that the Saudi experience places exceptional emphasis on instilling essential skills in students, promoting positive values and behavior, and developing psychological resilience. He affirmed that these educational priorities extend from kindergarten through age eighteen, aiming to cultivate a resilient generation capable of self-learning, problem-solving, and possessing the social and emotional intelligence to adapt to future economic and professional changes.
Artificial intelligence: A tool for enrichment, not elimination
In its discussions on technology, the conference emphasized in its recommendations and main themes that the teacher is the cornerstone of improving learning outcomes. It was agreed that the use of artificial intelligence must be within clear ethical and regulatory frameworks that support the teacher, enrich their educational experience, and assist them in data analysis and personalized learning, without diminishing their human and educational role, which machines cannot replicate.
Recommendations for a sustainable educational future
The International Conference on the Education Profession, held under the theme "Sustainable Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," concluded with a number of important recommendations, most notably the need to develop sustainable national education policies that align with international frameworks. Participants also called for strengthening the use of artificial intelligence to support educational inclusion and equity, and for building resilient education systems capable of withstanding and adapting to future crises, to ensure the continued high quality of education under all circumstances.
