UNESCO has dedicated the International Day of Education 2025 to artificial intelligence, emphasizing its opportunities and challenges within global education systems.
This initiative aims to encourage discussions on AI’s role in education and calls for investments in teacher and student training on its responsible use.
“AI offers major opportunities for education, provided that its deployment in schools is guided by clear ethical principles,” said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
“It must become a tool at the service of teachers and pupils, with the main objective being their autonomy and well-being.”
AI use in education is on the rise globally, yet only 10% of institutions have established official frameworks for its implementation. Even the idea of AI replacing teachers has been floated.
UNESCO’s recent survey revealed that just seven countries have developed AI training programs for teachers, while many are adopting restrictions, such as banning mobile phones in classrooms.
Caretaker Minister for Education Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni, in an interview with Tonga Broadcasting, acknowledged AI’s dual impact, urging parents to guide children toward its safe and beneficial use.
“Education is crucial to the development of the country,” Sovaleni said as schools across Tonga resume this week.
A workshop held last year at the University of the South Pacific Tonga campus trained 40 educators from secondary schools on how to use AI and OER in classrooms. The initiative emphasized the creation of tailored teaching resources and enhanced student engagement using Generative AI tools.
UNESCO’s initiatives also stress the need for governments to prioritize essential resources like electricity and internet access, as AI integration must complement—not replace—traditional learning tools.
International Day of Education is held annually on January 24.