AI should support, not replace teachers, says education minister

hartono · Feb 5, 2026

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti served as a keynote speaker at an international seminar at UHAMKA in East Jakarta on Thursday (February 5, 2026). ANTARA/HO-Humas Kemendikdasmen

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti emphasized that the development of artificial intelligence (AI) should be positioned as a tool to support learning, not to replace teachers’ presence in education.

He noted that today’s education sector faces a new challenge, which is how to ensure technology enhances learning quality without eroding human values.

“AI is a product of machine learning, algorithms, and technology. It is merely a tool. Education remains about building human character, which cannot be replaced by technology. Humans control technology and use it for the benefit of others and the welfare of our planet,” Minister Mu’ti said here on Thursday.

He also highlighted the urgency of strengthening English language learning from primary education. Accordingly, English is planned to become a mandatory subject starting in grade 3 of elementary school in 2027.

The policy aims to equip students with the ability to communicate and interact globally from an early age. He added that English learning should follow a deep learning approach that promotes understanding rather than rote memorization.

“Learning experiences should be designed to be more active, contextual, and meaningful, so students can use the language in real-life situations,” he said.

In addition, Mu’ti expressed hope that cross-country and interdisciplinary collaboration could enrich policies and practices in English learning in Indonesia while keeping education human-centered.

At the same event, UHAMKA English professor Herri Mulyono explained that integrating AI in English learning should not shift teachers' role as they need to become facilitators of critical thinking, ethical reflection, and cultural awareness.

He also warned of the risks of excessive AI reliance and stressed the importance of strengthening teachers’ professional identity.