Keynote Address - Faculty of Humanities Spring School

At the FHUM Spring School held on 17 September 2024 at Khaya iBhubesi Conference Centre in Parys, I delivered a keynote focused on preparing students for the AI-driven future. In collaboration with my brother Prof. Byron Bunt, we emphasised the importance of fostering "STELLAR MINDS," advocating for the integration of AI in education while addressing its ethical, environmental, and social implications. I explored how AI can be used as a tool to empower students by enhancing critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy. We delved into how AI is shaping various sectors, including education, and discussed the importance of equipping students with not only technical skills but also the adaptability required to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. The need for AI literacy, ethical AI usage, and the potential impact of AI on the job market were key areas of focus.

We also discussed the environmental costs of AI, particularly energy and water usage, and how these could be mitigated through smarter practices. Through interactive discussions, we encouraged educators to rethink educational spaces, promote interdisciplinary learning, and critically evaluate the role of AI in both enhancing and challenging human creativity and problem-solving.