Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a ubiquitous part of learning. According to IDC, by 2027, over 90% of devices used in learning and education will feature AI-enhanced capabilities. In the GCC region, this shift is accelerating even faster. PwC projects that the GCC edtech market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 15%, with investments expected to surpass $700 billion by 2028. 

Basil Hanna, Managing Director, Kaplan Middle East & North Africa, points out that while AI adoption is accelerating across various sectors, educational institutions are taking a thoughtful approach to ensure responsible implementation. 

The conservative approach is not unusual. Ghanim Kashwani, Professor of Practice and Member of the Society of Engineers, reflects on the cautious nature of the educational stakeholders concerning new technologies. In the 1970s, for example, the introduction and widespread use of calculators sparked concerns about the erosion of problem-solving abilities. “It’s not about the tool itself—whether it’s a calculator or AI—but how we use it.”

EXPLORING THE TANGIBLE BENEFITS 

Today, AI’s impact on education is undeniable, as the recent boom in generative models has brought new possibilities concerning personalized learning pathways, explains Philippa Wraithmell, Founder of EdRuption and author of The Digital Ecosystem. High school and A-Level students particularly benefit from AI-driven discussions, with students using AI to review work and check if they’ve met key objectives,” she says, adding that such tools act as scaffolding that enables students to refine their skills while encouraging independent thinking. 

Additionally, AI is an assistive tool for students with disabilities, promoting inclusivity without offering unfair advantages.

Teachers also benefit. Wraithmell highlights AI’s capacity to streamline lesson planning, manage time more effectively, and identify areas of improvement. Hanna agrees, citing AI’s role in intelligent grading systems, personalized curricula, and AI-driven tutoring, providing educators more time for personal student interaction. “AI chatbots and virtual mentors can also offer round-the-clock support, ensuring learners stay engaged outside traditional classroom hours, and universities are utilizing AI-driven analytics to track learner progress and intervene early if challenges arise,” he adds.  

AI’s versatility extends to professional education, facilitating gamified learning, real-time feedback, and immersive AR and VR experiences. “Adaptive learning technologies can analyze a learner’s progress in real-time, adjusting content and pacing accordingly,” says Hanna, noting that at Kaplan, they see the potential of hyper-personalized education in preparing professionals for dynamic, competitive landscapes.

From providing access to quality training remotely to AI translation tools and adaptive learning systems, also supporting a diverse workforce and ensuring non-native speakers can engage meaningfully with content, AI is helping democratize education, “This is relevant at all levels of education, ranging from K12 to higher education, executive education and corporate training, where learners have varying levels of experience and knowledge acquisition methods,” says Hanna. 

THE DARKER SIDE OF IMPLEMENTATION 

While AI offers clear benefits, it also brings complex challenges. One primary concern is overreliance. “Many educators worry that students may rely too heavily on AI, copy-pasting AI-generated content without reviewing it, ultimately undermining their critical thinking skills, which educational systems are designed to cultivate,” says Wraithmell. 

Teachers are not immune to this. While AI can streamline tasks like creating worksheets or writing letters, excessive dependence could compromise creativity and lead to the use of inaccurate materials.

Data privacy and security is another pressing issue. “Schools are high-risk targets for cyberattacks due to the sensitive data they hold,” she says. “Some AI tools may inadvertently expose student data, especially when using open-source platforms that don’t comply with data privacy regulations.” This, she adds, underscores the importance of using AI systems that ensure data remains within a school’s infrastructure and why generative AI models are generally not recommended for those under 13 without parental consent. 

GCC LEADING THE AI REVOLUTION IN EDUCATION

These are simply a few of the many challenges that may arise, and given AI’s potential opportunities, schools have woken up to their critical role in optimizing the benefits while mitigating risks. “Initially, many schools didn’t fully understand digital technology, often thinking it wasn’t their responsibility,” Wraithmell shares. “However, with the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, schools are now more engaged, asking crucial questions about safe integration and ethical considerations.” 

Kashwani believes that as the industry is undergoing a learning curve, schools and universities will support it by providing courses for students and professors on using AI tools: “It’s about training the trainer.”  

This is especially notable in the GCC region, which has continuously positioned itself as a global leader in responsible AI adoption, fuelled by financial investment and a forward-thinking approach. 

In the UAE today, AI spans K-12 education, smart classrooms, and AI-powered assessments, all of which are part of efforts to future-proof education. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are also driving AI integration, particularly within innovative city development, and schools in the region are becoming more proactive in addressing AI’s ethical concerns. 

Wraithmell cites the British School of Muscat, which developed structured guidelines for safe AI use and even created chatbots to help staff and parents understand AI’s role in education.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF AI LITERATE EDUCATIONAL SECTOR 

Developing solid digital strategies and frameworks will be more critical moving forward as policies around data privacy, cybersecurity, and AI ethics must align with evolving national standards. However, institutions should look beyond compliance: “It’s not just about following rules—it’s about asking, ‘Why are we using this technology, and is it truly necessary?’” says Wraithmell. “This is especially true for AI, where age-appropriate strategies are crucial.” 

This highlights the need for human educators more than ever. Hanna stresses: “AI is set to enhance—not replace—traditional education. While AI is reshaping the sector, human educators remain essential, ensuring that technology complements, rather than replaces, traditional teaching methodologies.” 

Kashwani agrees, reminding the golden rule regarding any technology: “You have to start and end with the human touch,” he says. This is important even in the most analytical of fields because technology doesn’t have gut feelings. We need AI for operations, but human intervention is necessary when instincts and experience come into play.”