A significant workshop titled “The Effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its Uses on the Arab Child” commenced in Cairo, organized by the Arab Council for Childhood and Development in collaboration with the Arab Gulf Program for Development (AGFUND). The two-day event, which began on September 9, 2024, brought together 30 Arab experts to discuss the implications of AI on the lives of Arab children. The workshop aims to raise awareness about the opportunities and risks associated with AI, especially in the context of crises, wars, and global developments.
The workshop in Cairo highlighted both the opportunities and risks that AI presents for Arab children. On one hand, AI has the potential to revolutionize education, healthcare, and social services, providing children with enhanced learning experiences, better healthcare outcomes, and improved access to social support. AI-driven tools can personalize education, making learning more engaging and effective. In healthcare, AI can assist in early diagnosis and treatment, improving the overall well-being of children.
However, the workshop also emphasized the risks associated with AI. One of the primary concerns is the potential for AI to exacerbate existing inequalities. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds may have less access to AI technologies, widening the digital divide. Additionally, there are concerns about data privacy and security, as AI systems often require large amounts of personal data. Ensuring that children’s data is protected and used ethically is a critical challenge that needs to be addressed.
Dr. Hassan Al-Bilawi, Secretary-General of the Arab Council for Childhood and Development, stressed the importance of using AI within a framework of enlightenment, humanity, and social justice. He called for scientific research centers to play a pivotal role in ensuring that AI advancements benefit all children, regardless of their socio-economic status.
The Role of Education and Awareness
Education and awareness were key themes at the workshop. Participants discussed the need to educate both children and adults about AI and its implications. For children, this means integrating AI literacy into the school curriculum, teaching them about the technology, its potential benefits, and its risks. By understanding AI, children can become more informed users and creators of technology, better equipped to navigate the digital world.
For adults, particularly parents and educators, the focus is on raising awareness about how AI can impact children’s lives. This includes understanding the ethical considerations of AI, such as data privacy and the potential for bias in AI systems. By being informed, adults can make better decisions about the use of AI in children’s lives and advocate for policies that protect children’s rights.
The workshop also highlighted the importance of collaboration between governments, educational institutions, and the private sector. By working together, these stakeholders can develop comprehensive strategies to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. This includes creating policies that protect children’s data, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring that AI technologies are accessible to all children.
Future Directions and Recommendations
The workshop concluded with several recommendations for the future. One of the key recommendations was the need for ongoing research into the impact of AI on children. This includes studying how AI affects children’s cognitive and emotional development, as well as its impact on their social interactions and mental health. By understanding these effects, policymakers can develop strategies to mitigate any negative impacts and enhance the positive benefits of AI.
Another recommendation was the establishment of ethical guidelines for the use of AI in children’s lives. These guidelines should be developed in consultation with experts from various fields, including technology, education, healthcare, and child development. The guidelines should address issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the ethical use of AI in education and healthcare.
Finally, the workshop called for greater investment in AI education and training. This includes not only integrating AI literacy into the school curriculum but also providing training for teachers and other professionals who work with children. By equipping these individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to understand and use AI, we can ensure that children are supported in their interactions with AI technologies.
