Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept confined to science fiction. It’s here, and it’s transforming industries, economies, and societies across the globe. As AI technologies rapidly advance, South Africa stands at a critical juncture—either we can sit on the beach and watch the AI wave roll in, or we can grab our surfboards, run into the sea, and ride the wave of innovation. Those surfboards are education. 

A key to South Africa’s success in this new era will be AI literacy and skills. To future-proof our nation, AI literacy and skills must be integrated at all levels—primary, secondary, and tertiary. AI is no longer just for tech experts; being able to use generative AI, such as ChatGPT, effectively and responsibly must become a fundamental part of every South African’s education. We must embrace it as an essential skill, akin to reading or mathematics, and ensure that our educational system is equipped to foster this new literacy.

AI Literacy: The bedrock of future success

South Africa’s recently published National AI Policy Framework wisely emphasises talent development as one of its core strategic pillars, underscoring the importance of equipping South Africans with AI knowledge from a young age. At the primary school level, students should be introduced to the basics of AI, understanding what it is, how it works, and how it will impact the world they are growing into. This foundational knowledge will ensure that children grow up seeing AI as a tool they can control and use creatively, rather than something mysterious or intimidating.

As students progress to secondary school, this AI literacy should evolve. Here, AI tools can assist with critical thinking, problem-solving, and even coding. The goal is to ensure that students not only consume AI-driven technology but also understand how to shape and innovate with it. AI must be integrated across subjects—not confined to computer science classes alone. Imagine students using AI to improve their mathematics problem-solving or to assist in complex history projects. This kind of immersion will prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the AI-driven future.

At the tertiary level, South Africa has an incredible opportunity to lead the continent. Our universities must prioritise AI research, and industry partnerships should be fostered to ensure students receive real-world training in AI application. The National AI Policy Framework recognises the importance of public-private partnerships, creating a fertile ground for innovation. The universities that make AI a central focus of their curricula will be the ones whose graduates lead the way in both local and global AI developments. This is how we prepare the next generation of leaders—by giving them the skills and knowledge to navigate, and even shape, an AI-infused world.

Normalising responsible AI use

Integrating AI into education isn’t just about teaching students how to use it—it’s about ensuring they use it responsibly. In my experience drafting AI guidelines for academia, I have seen first-hand how crucial it is to balance AI innovation with ethical responsibility. AI is a powerful tool, but it’s only as good as the humans who wield it. South Africa’s National AI Policy Framework wisely emphasises the importance of ethical guidelines, transparency, and fairness in AI systems.

In my own field of law, AI is already transforming legal practice by automating document review, predicting case outcomes, and streamlining legal research. But the role of law schools in this AI-driven future extends beyond merely teaching students how to use these technologies. We must prepare law students to engage with AI critically, understanding its limitations, ethical implications, and the risks of bias or misuse. By equipping future lawyers with AI literacy, we are not just preparing them to use AI tools effectively—we are teaching them to lead responsibly in a world where AI is increasingly shaping justice. This sense of responsibility is crucial not only in legal practice but across all sectors where AI is integrated.

There is also a social challenge: the stigma that still surrounds AI in certain academic circles. Some cling to the misconception that using AI is akin to ‘plagiarism’ or ‘cheating’. Such thinking is fast becoming antiquated. AI, like a calculator or search engine, can enhance learning and research when used properly. Instead of stigmatising the use of AI, we should focus on educating students and researchers about its ethical and responsible use. By demystifying AI and embracing its potential, academia can lead the way in AI literacy and responsible use.

Bridging the digital divide

Of course, there are challenges. South Africa’s digital divide remains a significant barrier to equitable AI adoption. Many rural schools lack the digital infrastructure necessary to even begin conversations about AI education. But this obstacle should not deter us. The National AI Policy Framework addresses this divide by prioritising digital infrastructure development, investing in connectivity, and building a supercomputing infrastructure to support AI research. These efforts, combined with targeted investments in rural areas, will ensure that all South Africans—regardless of their background—can access the benefits of AI education.

Riding the AI wave into the future

AI is rapidly reshaping the future, and faster than we could have imagined. South Africa’s National AI Policy Framework provides a solid foundation by offering the tools and guidance to integrate AI into our education system and beyond. However, the true challenge lies in taking decisive action—ensuring that AI literacy is embedded at every educational level, and that all South Africans have the opportunity to develop the skills needed to succeed in an AI-driven world.

By incorporating AI education into schools, universities, and workplaces, South Africa can position itself as a competitive force on the global stage. We cannot sit on the shore and just watch the wave. We must run into the sea, surfboard in hand, and ride it into a future where South Africa is not only a player but a leader in AI innovation.

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This opinion editorial has been published in The Mercury of 10 October 2024.