Educators Must Harness AI to Stay Relevant
Senior Assistant Registrar at Sunyani Technical University, Philemon Gyabaa, has called on teachers to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as an essential tool for modern education rather than viewing it as a threat to their profession.
Mr Gyabaa, who is also an AI instructor and Founder of Persevera AI Solutions, said the rapid evolution of technology demands that educators adapt in order to remain relevant. According to him, AI has the capacity to enhance teaching effectiveness by supporting lesson preparation, assessment and classroom management.
“AI should be seen as a partner in the classroom, not a rival,” he emphasised.
He explained that tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, speech-to-text applications and automated assessment platforms can significantly reduce the time teachers spend on repetitive tasks. This, he noted, would allow educators to devote greater attention to mentoring students, encouraging creativity and providing personalised guidance.
Mr Gyabaa further pointed out that AI systems can analyse students’ learning patterns, helping teachers to design lessons that address individual strengths and weaknesses. He dismissed concerns that AI would replace teachers, describing such claims as misplaced. Instead, he argued that the technology expands the teacher’s capacity and provides deeper insights into student performance.
Highlighting practical applications, he mentioned platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini, among others, as tools that can assist educators in creating engaging and timely instructional materials.
On the challenge of the digital divide, Mr Gyabaa stressed that equitable access to digital infrastructure and training is crucial for AI to have a meaningful impact. He urged government and private sector stakeholders to invest in ICT facilities and continuous digital literacy programmes for teachers, particularly in underserved communities.
He underscored the need for strong public-private partnerships to expand access to AI resources nationwide.
Looking ahead, Mr Gyabaa maintained that the future classroom will not eliminate teachers but empower them. While AI can ease workloads and improve learning outcomes, he concluded, it can never replace the empathy, inspiration and moral guidance that teachers provide in shaping responsible citizens.
