Experts in the UAE are increasingly urging that artificial intelligence (AI) be integrated into school and university curricula to prepare for rising cybersecurity threats. They believe that equipping future leaders with the necessary skills is crucial for addressing the current skills shortage in the AI sector.

Muhannad Tayem, a Partner in the Government & Public Sector at Deloitte Middle East, stressed the importance of introducing AI concepts into educational programs. He stated, “We need to start teaching AI fundamentals in schools as early as possible. Furthermore, integrating AI into various subjects at the university level is essential, especially when it comes to practical use cases.” Tayem also pointed out that the impact of cyberattacks on national security and a country’s global reputation cannot be understated, highlighting that investment in this area is crucial due to the potential financial losses and economic effects of successful cyberattacks.

To effectively prepare against cyber threats, Tayem outlined various areas that require comprehensive investment. This includes raising public awareness about potential dangers, developing recovery plans, securing critical data, and adopting appropriate technologies. He emphasized, “A strategy with a clear set of initiatives must be in place and periodically refreshed, as cyberattacks evolve daily.”

Nicolai Solling, Chief Technology Officer at Help AG, discussed the appropriate age to introduce children to AI and cybersecurity concepts. He remarked, “In our increasingly digital world, technology is transforming every aspect of our lives, including education. Digital skills have become fundamental life skills that everyone needs.” Solling further noted that as AI technology evolves, it is crucial for children to understand its implications, stressing the need for schools to teach basic cybersecurity skills early on to protect students from online threats.

Solling also highlighted the increased vulnerability of children due to their reliance on technology, stating that students must learn to recognize potential dangers online. He cautioned, however, against over-relying on AI in educational contexts, asserting, “While AI offers remarkable capabilities, it is crucial that we nurture creative thinking and problem-solving skills, which are inherently human qualities.”

Peter Oganesean, Managing Director for HP Middle East and East Africa, emphasized the significant need for cybersecurity education within school curricula. He warned that as students spend more time online, they face growing risks such as phishing and data breaches. Oganesean advocated for engaging and practical cybersecurity education, proposing the use of gamified learning and AI-powered assistance.

He also raised concerns regarding the ethical implications of AI in education, stressing the importance of fairness and transparency in AI applications. Oganesean stated, “If AI tools are trained on flawed data, they can perpetuate biases. Regular audits to check for bias and promoting clear, explainable AI systems are essential.” He concluded that collaboration among AI developers, educators, and policymakers is critical for creating ethical frameworks that ensure AI serves the best interests of all students.