Manitoba Summit Highlights AI’s Growing Role in Education

This Friday, the Manitoba government will host a summit focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The event aims to gather school leaders, researchers, and policymakers from across the province to discuss the responsible use of AI as a learning tool. This initiative follows a commitment made in the government’s November 2025 throne speech to collaborate with educators and families to ensure AI is utilized safely and effectively.

The urgency of this summit is underscored by recent statistics. A survey revealed that 73 percent of Canadian students are currently using AI for their school assignments, with 25 percent relying on it daily. In the United Kingdom, the trend is even more pronounced, with 88 percent of undergraduate students using AI for their studies, a significant increase from 52 percent just one year ago. Furthermore, 12 percent of Canadian businesses have adopted AI, a figure that has doubled over the past year.

Addressing the Knowledge Gap

As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in education, it poses challenges for educators and parents. A study indicated that only 36 percent of Canadians are familiar with AI’s ethical implications, and merely 7 percent of teachers consider themselves AI experts. This gap highlights the need for K-12 institutions and universities to prioritize AI literacy—essential knowledge and skills for navigating a world increasingly influenced by AI.

While discussions about privacy, safety, and intellectual property are crucial, a blanket ban on AI is not a viable solution. Many educational institutions that attempted to restrict AI usage quickly realized that effective detection of AI-generated content is a significant challenge. Instead of avoiding the issue, educators are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue about integrating AI into learning frameworks.

Manitoba’s Leadership in AI Education

Positive developments are already underway in Manitoba. The Winnipeg School Division recently introduced an AI thinking framework to guide teachers, students, and families on the effective application of AI in alignment with educational goals. Similarly, the Lakeshore School Division has implemented policies since 2023 aimed at enhancing AI literacy.

In collaboration with numerous educators, initiatives are emerging to rethink assessment methods in light of AI advancements. Faculty members from the University of Winnipeg and other institutions are researching how AI and machine learning can advance various fields, including business and healthcare, while ensuring student safety remains a priority.

Reflecting on past leadership, Manitoba Education released a guiding policy document two decades ago that shaped assessment practices province-wide. There is a compelling opportunity for the Manitoba government to demonstrate similar leadership today, particularly in the context of AI. The upcoming summit is expected to pave the way for long-term changes, including sustained support, resources, and professional development tailored to the needs of educators and students.

The challenge remains for K-12 schools and higher education institutions to provide robust learning experiences in an AI-infused environment. As the summit unfolds, the focus will be not only on immediate strategies but also on creating a sustainable framework for AI education in Manitoba. This proactive approach could position the province as a leader in navigating the complexities of AI in the educational landscape.