Education at the Oman Conference: The teacher is the cornerstone, and artificial intelligence is the tool
During its active participation in the International Conference on the Teaching Profession hosted by the Sultanate of Oman, the Saudi Ministry of Education reaffirmed its firm stance on the future of education, emphasizing that the teacher remains the primary agent and cornerstone in achieving educational impact and ensuring the quality of learning. The Ministry clarified that rapidly advancing digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence applications, represent enabling tools that support the educational process and aim to enrich the experience, but can in no way replace the human and leadership role of the teacher.
International context and importance of the conference
These statements come at a crucial time, as the world engages in extensive discussions about the impact of technology on traditional jobs. The International Conference on the Teaching Profession in Muscat has gained significant regional and international importance. Held under the theme "Sustainable Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," the conference aimed to chart a course that balances technological openness with preserving the essence of education. This event serves as a strategic platform for exchanging experiences among nations and discussing the challenges facing education systems in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, reflecting the region's commitment to keeping pace with global changes through conscious and well-considered planning.
Features of the pioneering Saudi experience
The Deputy Minister of Education for Public Education, Dr. Hassan Khurami, reviewed the Saudi experience in developing the teaching profession and educational leadership, highlighting the radical transformations taking place in the Kingdom. He explained that the national education system is based on building sustainable education that enhances the quality of outcomes and keeps pace with technological advancements, while maintaining the central role of the teacher. He pointed out that the Saudi experience places particular emphasis on instilling essential skills in students, promoting values and positive behavior, developing psychological resilience, supporting self-reliance in problem-solving, and cultivating social and emotional intelligence, as educational priorities extending from kindergarten to the age of eighteen.
Artificial intelligence: a tool to serve humanity
Regarding the ongoing debate surrounding artificial intelligence, the views presented at the conference converged on the necessity of employing these technologies within clear ethical and regulatory frameworks. Key speakers emphasized that integrating AI into classrooms should aim to alleviate the administrative burden on teachers, enabling them to focus on creative and pedagogical aspects, improve learning outcomes through accurate data analysis, and promote inclusion and equity for all students.
Recommendations for a flexible educational future
The conference concluded with a number of important recommendations calling for the development of sustainable national education policies in line with international frameworks, and the building of resilient education systems capable of withstanding and adapting to future crises. Participants also emphasized the importance of investing in teacher training to ensure the use of modern digital tools, so that technology serves, rather than dictates, higher educational goals.
