Sharjah sets ethical rules for AI use in schools

Sharjah has introduced an ethical framework to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in schools, seeking to harness the technology’s educational benefits while protecting student privacy, academic integrity and the quality of learning.

Launched recently by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA), the framework establishes guidelines for the safe, responsible and effective use of AI in education. It aligns with UAE national directives and places emphasis on fairness, transparency, accountability, cybersecurity, human oversight and critical thinking.

A key provision requires students to disclose when they use AI in assignments. The guidelines also make clear that AI-generated content must not replace students’ original work, reinforcing the importance of independent thinking and genuine learning.

The framework extends beyond students, assigning specific responsibilities to school leaders, teachers, IT teams, education specialists and parents. The approach is intended to ensure that the adoption of AI in classrooms is supported by appropriate supervision, clear expectations and shared accountability.

Aisha Butti Al Ghafli, director of SPEA’s Curriculum and Assessment Department, said the framework would support digital transformation in education, promote personalised learning and strengthen teachers’ digital proficiency.

As AI tools become increasingly accessible to students and educators, the guidelines seek to establish a balance between innovation and responsibility. By setting clear expectations for their use, SPEA aims to ensure that technology supports teaching and learning without undermining student privacy, academic honesty or the development of critical-thinking skills.