Wed, Jul 15, 2026
Wed, Jul 15, 2026
Beyond ‘chalk and talk’, Pres. Ali advocates for AI in Caribbean education
By Kurt Campbell
In a compelling address at the 4th CXC Ministerial Summit held on Wednesday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the urgent need to transition from traditional “chalk and talk” teaching methods to a more dynamic, technology-driven approach in Caribbean education.
The summit, which focused on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technological innovations, gathered education leaders to discuss critical strategies for enhancing learning outcomes in the region.
Delivering his address virtually, President Ali outlined the challenges and opportunities facing Caribbean education, particularly in light of declining math grades and the learning losses experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He stressed the importance of adapting to new teaching methods, which were necessitated by the pandemic, and called for a proactive embrace of AI as an essential tool for modern education.
“The challenges we face are immense, but so are the opportunities,” President Ali stated.
“We must ensure that the Caribbean education system does not lag behind but instead embraces the future that AI offers.”
He highlighted that the region has already been suffering from a significant digital divide, exacerbated by the pandemic’s revelations of unpreparedness in schools reliant on outdated teaching methods.
While the integration of AI and digital technologies into the education system is expected to be costly—particularly in retrofitting schools into smart classrooms—President Ali argued that the cost of inaction would ultimately be far greater.
“Our goal should be to prepare students to thrive in an evolving technological landscape, fostering critical thinkers capable of navigating future complexities,” he said.
Addressing concerns from educators regarding AI’s potential to replace their roles, President Ali assured that AI should not be seen as a substitute for teachers but rather as a partner in the educational process.
“AI can help remove administrative burdens from teachers and create a more engaging learning environment,” he added.
“The future of education in our region depends on the choices we make today.”
Dr. Wayne Wesley, the CEO of CXC, echoed the President’s sentiments, sharing insights on a five-year plan aimed at transforming educational services through digital means.
He emphasized the necessity of creating dynamic interactions in the classroom, stating, “AI provides us with the ability to create an energized environment that enhances the learning experience.”