Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has called for rapid adoption of new technology in schools, arguing that artificial intelligence will be central to improving education and driving South Africa’s economic growth.
Lesufi was speaking in Johannesburg on Monday during a ministerial breakfast honouring the country’s top National Senior Certificate achievers. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube also attended the event.
Addressing the high performing matriculants, Lesufi applauded their dedication and said they reflect the future of the country. He cautioned, however, that this future relies heavily on how quickly the education system embraces technological change.
He stressed that South Africa cannot strengthen its economy without first strengthening its schools, adding that artificial intelligence should be more than a feature of social media. Instead, he argued, it must become a core learning tool in classrooms.
Lesufi said pupils should be encouraged to use AI for their schoolwork, and teachers should be trained to integrate it effectively.
According to him, the technology is already part of everyday life and must be utilised rather than avoided. He also warned that South Africa has fallen behind in introducing AI into teaching environments and cannot afford further delays.
Using light hearted examples, the Premier highlighted the importance of innovation and the need to move beyond outdated methods.
He said the country must ensure that modern ideas take root in the education system and that schools are equipped with free WiFi, smart devices and other digital learning resources. He also joked that chalkboards and dusters should already be considered relics of the past.
Lesufi ended by encouraging pupils to imagine and create the next wave of technological solutions, noting that some may one day design home appliances that can be controlled remotely with a simple message.
Facebook Comments