Government Issues SKB for Seven Ministers on AI Education

JAKARTA - The government has issued a Joint Decree (SKB) of seven ministers on guidelines for the use and learning of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in education, ranging from early childhood education to universities.

"The Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture facilitates and coordinates seven ministries that make a joint decision letter regarding the use of digital technology and artificial intelligence for formal education ranging from PAUD to higher education and informal education, including families," said Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture's office, Jakarta, Thursday, March 12, reported by ANTARA.

The Joint Decree was signed by the Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian, Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti.

Then, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto, the Minister of Digital Communications Meutya Hafid, the Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji, and the Minister of Empowerment of Women and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi.

Pratikno explained that the policy emphasizes the importance of using digital technology and artificial intelligence wisely by considering the readiness of children which is closely related to age.

In the SKB, it is regulated regarding the age that is allowed to use digital technology and AI, types of use, and duration of use that is adjusted to the level of education.

According to him, the higher the level of education, the looser the use of technology will be because users are considered to have better readiness.

On the other hand, at the early age level to basic education, the use of technology will be more controlled both in terms of duration and content.

"The lower it gets, the more controlled it is. Not only controlled in terms of duration, but also in terms of content," he said.

Pratikno explained that the policy involved various ministries related to the implementation of education, including ministries that manage basic and secondary education, higher education, and religious education.

In addition, the role of local governments is also considered important in the implementation of this policy, in addition to support from ministries that handle family education and the digital technology industry.

He gave an example at the elementary and secondary education level, students are not allowed to use instant AI that directly answers user questions.

However, the use of AI is still possible if the technology is specifically designed for learning needs.

"For example, robotic simulations for basic education can use AI, but are designed for educational needs," he said.

Pratikno hopes that through the SKB, the use of digital technology and AI for Indonesian children can provide positive benefits while minimizing various negative risks.

"But it (SKB) is indeed designed for educational needs," said Pratikno.