He explained that a broad approach is necessary and that raising awareness, providing counselling and focusing on prevention are required to promote the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) among the nation’s youths. The nation was shocked by the news that several underage students who are being suspected of having used AI to produce and spread pornographic images of fellow students were recently arrested.

Last Friday Minister Currie revealed that he had spoken to the principal of the school where these students are enrolled and that he had also contacted his colleague at the Ministry of Justice and Police. He explained that the ministry and the government have a supporting role in the matter. Minister Currie also explained that the focus must not only be on the victims but also on the underage suspects as they will also need counselling. He pointed out that this case shows what kind of influence technology can have on youths. “Technology offers many opportunities for development but it can also have a negative influence if it is used in a wrong manner”, said Minister Currie who added that social media affects youths. The Ministry of Education will focus on providing counseling and initiating dialogue within the school environment. Minister Currie has advised the principal not to talk directly to those involved but to get the entire school community involved. “I have advised the principal to talk to the entire school so not only the specific groups such as the parents of the victims, the parents of the perpetrators, the victims themselves and the perpetrators”, said Minister Currie who added that this case must trigger a structural approach to the use of AI within the education system. Minister Currie warned that this event should not be considered a once-only incident. Talks with youths can prevent such situations from happening again. Minister Currie explained that the youths must be made aware that their actions can have long term consequences.