education 18 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
AI a Guide, Not Replacement for Human Intellect in Education, Expert Stresses
An education expert has cautioned against the over-reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teacher training, emphasizing that it should serve as a supplementary tool rather than a substitute for genuine human intelligence and critical thinking. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/use-ai-as-a-guiding-tool-not-to-replace-real-intelligence-education-expert-warns-5501566
Professor James Tumine, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Kabale University, has sounded an alarm regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teacher training. He argues that prioritizing AI over ‘Real Intelligence’ (RI) risks stifling the innovation and creativity essential for effective teaching.
“Concentrate on Real Intelligence (RI) instead of Artificial Intelligence (AI) because it gives students a chance to use their brains to be innovative and creative,” Professor Tumwine stated. He clarified that AI should function as a guide for technological advancements, not as a replacement for the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that characterize human intelligence, particularly vital in the education sector.
AI is defined as a computer science system capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, and decision-making. RI, conversely, involves the application of mental capacity to acquire knowledge, adapt to new situations, and resolve intricate issues.
Professor Tumwine voiced these concerns during a keynote address at the Uganda National Institute for Teacher Education (UNITE) council meeting in Kabale. UNITE is intended to consolidate all teacher training programs in Uganda and elevate them to degree-level qualifications, phasing out lower-tier certifications.
Addressing the council, UNITE Vice Chancellor Professor Betty Akullu Ezati highlighted the institute’s strategic focus on vocationalizing teacher education through practical, hands-on experiences. However, she also pointed out significant challenges, such as the dilapidated state of equipment and inadequate resources in laboratories and libraries across all campuses, requiring substantial upgrades to meet degree-awarding standards. The council’s visit to the Kabale campus was aimed at assessing its infrastructural condition. Ms. Teopista Birungi Mayanja, UNITE Vice Chairperson, assured stakeholders that the institute would assume regulatory oversight of the education system, with a strong emphasis on professionalism.