News / National
'AI will support, not replace teachers'
2 hrs ago |
86 Views
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo has moved to calm fears over artificial intelligence replacing educators, stressing that technology is intended to complement - not displace - the role of teachers.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), Moyo made the remarks during the launch of the Ministry's Learner's Hub Chatbot, a digital platform designed to enhance access to learning resources and strengthen learner welfare systems.
"Technology does not replace the teacher; it strengthens and supports your work," he said. "It enhances access to resources and creates additional pathways for learner support, but the teacher remains at the heart of the education process."
His comments come amid growing global debate over the role of artificial intelligence in education, with concerns that automation could threaten teaching jobs. However, policymakers are increasingly advocating for a blended model where digital tools enhance classroom instruction rather than replace it.
In Zimbabwe, the government is positioning digital innovation as a means to bridge educational gaps and expand access, particularly in underserved areas. Moyo linked the initiative to the country's broader development agenda under Emmerson Mnangagwa's Vision 2030.
The Learner's Hub Chatbot allows students to access learning materials, receive instant feedback and report welfare concerns through an automated system. It also supports multiple languages, including indigenous ones, and is designed to improve accessibility for learners with disabilities.
"It ensures that learners, regardless of location, are able to access real-time support, learning resources, and guidance through modern digital channels," Moyo said.
The launch follows the rollout of more than 8,000 Starlink internet connectivity kits to schools nationwide, aimed at improving digital infrastructure and enabling platforms such as the chatbot to function effectively.
Moyo said the initiative aligns with the Ministry's broader E-Learning Policy and reflects global trends toward personalised, technology-driven education systems.
Beyond academics, the platform is also expected to enhance student welfare by enabling early detection of safeguarding concerns and facilitating timely intervention.
"The chatbot will play a critical role in supporting the management of learner welfare cases and safeguarding issues," he said.
Despite the push toward digital transformation, Moyo emphasised that human interaction remains central to effective education.
"This is not simply a technology launch. It is a statement of intent… that digital transformation must have a human face," he said.
The initiative has received backing from development partners including the United Nations Population Fund and the UNESCO, as Zimbabwe steps up efforts to build a more inclusive and technology-enabled education system.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), Moyo made the remarks during the launch of the Ministry's Learner's Hub Chatbot, a digital platform designed to enhance access to learning resources and strengthen learner welfare systems.
"Technology does not replace the teacher; it strengthens and supports your work," he said. "It enhances access to resources and creates additional pathways for learner support, but the teacher remains at the heart of the education process."
His comments come amid growing global debate over the role of artificial intelligence in education, with concerns that automation could threaten teaching jobs. However, policymakers are increasingly advocating for a blended model where digital tools enhance classroom instruction rather than replace it.
In Zimbabwe, the government is positioning digital innovation as a means to bridge educational gaps and expand access, particularly in underserved areas. Moyo linked the initiative to the country's broader development agenda under Emmerson Mnangagwa's Vision 2030.
The Learner's Hub Chatbot allows students to access learning materials, receive instant feedback and report welfare concerns through an automated system. It also supports multiple languages, including indigenous ones, and is designed to improve accessibility for learners with disabilities.
"It ensures that learners, regardless of location, are able to access real-time support, learning resources, and guidance through modern digital channels," Moyo said.
Moyo said the initiative aligns with the Ministry's broader E-Learning Policy and reflects global trends toward personalised, technology-driven education systems.
Beyond academics, the platform is also expected to enhance student welfare by enabling early detection of safeguarding concerns and facilitating timely intervention.
"The chatbot will play a critical role in supporting the management of learner welfare cases and safeguarding issues," he said.
Despite the push toward digital transformation, Moyo emphasised that human interaction remains central to effective education.
"This is not simply a technology launch. It is a statement of intent… that digital transformation must have a human face," he said.
The initiative has received backing from development partners including the United Nations Population Fund and the UNESCO, as Zimbabwe steps up efforts to build a more inclusive and technology-enabled education system.
Source - Southern Eye
Join the discussion
Loading comments…
