Students urged to use AI responsibly

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Standard Newspapers (TSN) Managing Director, Ms Asha Dachi, has cautioned students against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI), urging them to use the fast-evolving technology to strengthen learning and critical thinking rather than bypass academic effort.

Speaking as a guest of honour at Zanaki Secondary School’s graduation ceremony yesterday, Ms Dachi said that while AI is reshaping education and the workplace, it also presents growing risks, particularly for students preparing for national examinations.

“You are entering a world defined by rapid technological change. Artificial Intelligence has transformed how we learn and work, but it must be used responsibly,” she said.

“It should not be a shortcut for answering questions, but a tool to expand knowledge, think critically and innovate.” She stressed that the education students have received should enable them to analyse information independently, especially in an era dominated by social media and digital content.

“In today’s world, you must be able to distinguish truth from misinformation. Use technology wisely and become ambassadors of truthful and patriotic information,” she said.

Ms Dachi also commended the school’s strong academic performance, saying that it has ranked among the top 10 regional for three consecutive years, eighth in 2022, sixth in 2023 and fourth in 2024.

“I believe among the 258 candidates preparing for the Form Six examinations this year, Division One will be the norm, while Division Two will only come by exception,” she said.

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She praised the school’s motto, “Education First,” urging students to embrace it as a guiding principle in their academic journey and future careers. “Education is the foundation of life today and tomorrow,” she stressed.

Ms Dachi further called on students to uphold discipline, describing it as a key pillar of success.

“Talent or intelligence without discipline is like a powerful car without a steering wheel, do not be satisfied with a Form Six certificate. The world rewards those who continue learning every day,” she said.

She also encouraged students to be courageous and explore opportunities in various fields, including science, business and the arts. Ms Dachi said TSN will continue supporting the education sector through its publications and pledged to provide educational supplements to the school twice a month.

“These publications contain questions and answers prepared by experienced teachers from across the country. We believe they will add value to students’ learning,” she said.

Parents and teachers were commended for their role in the students’ success, with Ms Dachi describing their cooperation as vital.

“Just as a newspaper cannot be produced without reporters, editors and photographers working together, these achievements would not be possible without your collective effort,” she said.

Earlier, the school headmistress, Madam Delvine Koka, said the school continues to register strong academic performance, recording good results for three consecutive years without any failing grades.

A total of 360 students were enrolled at the school, with 258 completing their studies across three streams, science, arts and business studies.

However, she outlined several challenges facing the institution, including inadequate computers, worn-out infrastructure, insufficient air conditioning in computer rooms, and aging furniture.

Ms Koka expressed confidence that the school will continue to excel, stressing that expectations remain high for top divisions only. She further urged the students, as they prepare for their final examinations, to remain focused, disciplined and hardworking.