AI in Education: Promise and Concerns Over Data Privacy

AI in Education: Promise and Concerns Over Data Privacy

New Delhi: Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the education sector, acting as a powerful enabler of learning. Yet, its misuse for cheating, data breaches, and privacy violations remains a serious concern, says educationist Shishir Jaipuria.

Jaipuria, Chairman of the Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, emphasized that the true purpose of education is to nurture skilled, conscientious, and emotionally resilient individuals who contribute positively to society. However, the competitive race for grades often undermines this goal, sometimes leading students to extreme measures.

AI’s Role in Classrooms

Calling AI a watershed in human progress, Jaipuria noted that it is reshaping industries and future jobs. In schools, AI platforms help map each child’s learning style, identify gaps, and highlight strengths to improve outcomes. Teachers benefit too, as AI reduces routine tasks, boosts efficiency, and frees up time for classroom delivery. Many institutions have already built ecosystems of personalized learning through AI adoption.

Opportunities and Ethical Challenges

Technology also promotes self-learning, especially in regions lacking sufficient teachers. However, Jaipuria warned of ethical risks, including AI being used for cheating in online assessments. He stressed the need for strong guardrails to prevent data misuse and protect privacy.

Teacher training and professional development, he added, must focus on building digital competencies so educators can fully leverage AI. “Pre-emptive measures, clear policies, and investments to bridge digital infrastructure gaps can make AI a true force multiplier in education,” he said.

National Education Policy and Systemic Issues

On the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Jaipuria described it as forward-looking, promoting competency-based learning, interdisciplinary approaches, critical thinking, experiential learning, multilingualism, and research. Yet, he acknowledged challenges in its nationwide rollout, including resistance to the three-language formula and the need for higher budget allocations to reach 6% of GDP.

He also addressed the tragic issue of student suicides, calling them a systemic problem. “Education should not be reduced to marks and grades alone. Success must be viewed holistically. Parents, schools, and communities need to collaborate, identify early warning signs, and intervene at the right time,” he urged.

Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, Jaipuria revealed that the group aims to expand to 50 schools by 2030. Currently, the Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group operates 23 K-12 schools, five preschools, two management institutions, and one teacher training academy across north India. New projects include a school in NCR and entry into Rajasthan, along with strengthening outreach through the Saamarthya Teachers Training Academy of Research (STTAR) to support teacher development and leadership programs.