Pretoria:Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has urged universities to prepare students for a future increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence (AI), while ensuring South Africa builds the necessary skills and research capabilities to shape this technology.
According to South African Government News Agency, during his keynote address at the 4th Universities South Africa (USAf) Higher Education Conference held at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Convention Centre, Manamela emphasized the evolving role of universities. He noted that AI amplifies the importance of teaching students to critically evaluate arguments, test evidence, and take responsibility for knowledge.
Manamela cautioned against the limitations of AI systems, which can generate content without verifying its truthfulness and produce answers without understanding the social implications of their application. He stressed that the responsibility to assess AI's usefulness remains crucial.
The Minister highlighted the need for a comprehensive response to AI in South Africa, beyond its use in student assignments. He called for attention to who develops AI technologies, the representation of languages and experiences, control over infrastructure, and the beneficiaries of the knowledge produced. He underscored the necessity for graduates who can both intelligently utilize and critically question AI tools, as well as researchers capable of contributing to their development.
Manamela also pointed out the educational and developmental significance of African language technologies, suitable datasets, computing capacity, and robust research partnerships. He argued that addressing issues of bias, power, labor, law, and human dignity requires contributions from the humanities and social sciences, in addition to engineering and natural sciences.
The Minister encouraged universities to move beyond general discussions about AI and to make practical decisions regarding teaching, assessment, and research capacity. He also highlighted the need for lifelong learning, emphasizing that universities should facilitate ongoing education throughout individuals' careers while preserving the quality and value of their qualifications.
The conference, taking place from October 7 to 9, 2026, aims to gather university leaders, academics, researchers, students, labor representatives, and international guests to generate insights, strengthen partnerships, and develop strategies for universities to remain responsive, adaptable, and impactful. The theme, 'Co-creating a Resilient Future,' underscores the importance of collaboration for achieving resilience, innovation, and renewal.
