back to top
POSTED IN

Maintaining Human Agency in Technological Advancements – DC

Mchinji District Commissioner, Lucia Chidalengwa, has underscored the importance of maintaining human agency at the centre of technological advancements, particularly in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in education.

Chidalengwa made the remarks on Saturday during the commemoration of International Education Day in Mchinji, emphasising the dual role of AI in supporting learning and fostering development while urging caution against over-reliance on it.

“AI can play a transformative role in education by enabling students and teachers to access information faster and more efficiently. However, as we embrace AI, we must ensure it complements, rather than replaces. When humans think it enhances brain development,” said Chidalengwa.

Human Agency in Technological Advancements
Chidalengwa: when humans think it enhances brain development

The event, organised by the Girls Activists Youth Organisation (GAYO), brought together primary and secondary schools to explore the theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.”

The celebrations featured performances and discussions highlighting the interplay between technology and education.

GAYO Executive Director, Richard Batchi echoed Chidalengwa’s sentiments, saying education must be the vehicle for ensuring that AI serves humanity rather than undermining it.

“As we witness unprecedented advancements in AI and automation, we must ask ourselves, how do we ensure these innovations serve humanity rather than replace it? AI is reshaping industries, redefining job markets, and influencing decision-making processes, but it must not erode the essence of human creativity, critical thinking, and ethical judgment. Education must empower us to navigate and influence these technological advancements for the betterment of society,” said Batch.

Human Agency in Technological Advancements
A student makes a presentation on AI

One of the learners, Tapiwa Luka from Kamuzu Primary School, said she was excited that these days there is AI which can also influence learning, however, she said there is a need to be cautious.

“AI has made it easier for me to understand and develop concepts, which enhances my creativity. But we must also be cautious because AI can sometimes spread misinformation, and we need to learn how to differentiate between facts and falsehoods,” said Luka.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education in peace and development, but in Mchinji it was commemorated on January 25 while nationally it will be commemorated on January 31 in Mzuzu.

Related articles

NCD Alliance Malawi worried with escalation of mental health problems among workers

Malawi continues to register an escalation in cases of stress, burnout, and anxiety among workers in various sectors despite growing recognition of mental health as a critical component of well-being, Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance Malawi (NCDAMW) has disclosed.

Chisankho Watch raises alarm over declining voter registration numbers

Chisankho Watch, a coalition of four civic organizations, has raised serious concerns over a decline in voter registration numbers during the second phase of the exercise.

Malawi, UN sign US$1.7bn five-year cooperation framework towards accelerated SDGs attainment

Malawi and the United Nations (UN) on Thursday signed a five-year cooperation framework to facilitate accelerated achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national development priorities for the next five years.

Stigma, discrimination affecting early detection, completion of treatment in leprosy

National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP) has described stigma and discrimination as the major challenges in early detection and successful completion of treatment in persons affected by leprosy disease in the society.