20250124 International Day of Education
Conscience is the Core of Education to Safeguard Humanity Amid the AI Wave
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze
Zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men
Vice President of the Association of World Citizens,
NGO in Consultative Status with ECOSOC and Associated with the UN DPI
President of the Federation of World Peace and Love
January 24, 2025
Distinguished Guests, Dear Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good Day!
Every year, the United Nations International Day of Education serves as a moment to reflect on the transformative power of education and its role in shaping the future, inspiring global influence for learning that brings peace and hope to humanity. For 2025, UNESCO has set the theme as “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in A World of Automation.” Amid the rapid advancement of technology, artificial intelligence is reshaping daily life at an exponential pace, influencing how we learn, work, think, and reason. Ensuring that AI is used appropriately, with technology used to benefit humanity and promote the wellbeing of all living beings, is a challenge that requires global attention and careful deliberation. This year’s theme is a wake-up call, reminding us that education’s role goes far beyond imparting knowledge; it is about inspiring hearts, awakening conscience, enlightening the kindness within humanity, and leveraging moral values to shape the application of technology. Through education, we can guide humanity toward a world of coexistence, mutual prosperity, harmony, and sustainability.
In the foreseeable decade, over the next decade, humanity's reliance on AI will increase significantly. The widespread adoption of AI-driven lifestyles will present comprehensive challenges to family, school, and societal education. When technology and machine-driven actions lack clear and appropriate guidelines—leading to ambiguity or even malicious intentions that threaten human safety—awakening conscience and safeguarding humanity will become critical for balancing technological advancement and ensuring human safety.
At this moment, for the younger generation—who are quick learners and open to new ideas—education that teaches them to clearly distinguish between good and bad, right and wrong, truth and falsehood will be a core strategy for the next decade. Today, the world faces numerous challenges: conflicts and wars have destroyed countless families, environmental crises threaten the survival of future generations, and social inequality and unequal distribution of resources deprive many of basic educational rights. In confronting these challenges, we must lay a solid foundation for the world through conscience-based education, upholding human dignity, and promoting kindness, and valuing the human spirit as the foundation while utilizing technology as a tool. Together, we can create a beautiful and sustainable future.
Conscience is the essence of human goodness. It is deeply rooted in our hearts, guiding us to make moral choices that transcend our human desires. By leading technology with conscience, we can harness the convenience brought by technology while amplifying the brilliance of humanity. Conscience education fosters global citizens who not only strive for personal success but also care for societal wellbeing. Such education represents a powerful force for global benefit. While technological advancement requires expertise, conscience education transcends age and race, applying universally to personal conduct, family life, various professions, social justice, national governance, and the unity and harmony of the world.
Conscience education encourages people to respect human rights, explore the true meaning of life, and become global citizens who help both themselves and others. This responsibility lies on everyone, as each person's actions have the power to influence those around them.
Let us hope that everyone use their influence to become sparks of conscience education, igniting the light of love and peace. Together, we can create a world of enduring peace and sustainability.
Thank you!