Public Lecture: AI, Education and the Future of Wok


February 17, 2025

Following the tremendous success of the 35th anniversary lecture series hosted by USM in 2024, The University of St. Martin (USM) is pleased to invite educators, policymakers, students, the private sector, media, NGOs and the general public to a thought-provoking public lecture on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and the labour market. The event will take place on 27th February at 6:30 pm at the USM campus.
As AI continues to redefine industries and reshape the global workforce, small island nations like St. Maarten/ Saint Martin must be proactive in adapting to these rapid technological advancements. This lecture will explore how AI is influencing education, workforce development, and economic opportunities in the region, offering insights into how institutions, businesses, governments and individuals can prepare for an AI-driven future.
Experts in AI, education policy, and workforce transformation, will explore the challenges and opportunities that AI presents for islanders. The session will include a discussion on:
• The impact of AI on education systems and the future of learning.
• How AI is transforming the labour market and job prospects on the island.
• Strategies for upskilling and workforce readiness in an AI-driven world.
• Ethical considerations and the role of local stakeholders in shaping AI policies.
This lecture comes on the heels of the recently observed International Day of Education 2025 which had as its theme “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” emphasizing the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of learning and workforce development. This year’s theme highlighted the critical need for inclusive and equitable access to AI-driven educational tools, reinforcing the importance of preparing societies for the digital revolution. The discussion at USM will build on these global conversations, bringing a localized perspective on how AI can influence change in the education sector and the labour market.
“We are at a critical juncture where AI is not just a futuristic concept but a present-day reality. AI is pervasive, and we can no longer avoid the serious conversations about its impact and how it is altering key sectors such as education in a significant way, with obvious implications for other aspects of life,” said Dr. Gale T C Rigobert, Dean of Academics at USM. “This lecture will provide an opportunity for the community to engage in meaningful discussions about how AI is influencing our education system and the workforce, and what steps we need to take to remain competitive, relevant and innovative.”
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to participate in the Q&A session following the lecture.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Valda Hazel Valda.hazel@usm.sx or visit the USM website www.usm.sx



 


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