That over-reliance on AI could be disastrous, Tanzanian women warned
What you need to know:
- He encouraged women to strengthen their technological skills by participating in various training programmes that will empower them to use AI effectively.
Arusha. The National Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (NACTVET) has urged women not to become overly dependent on Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems in their creative work, emphasising the importance of maintaining human knowledge and skills alongside technological advancements.
Speaking on Monday, 10 March 2025, in Arusha, the Chairperson of Women at NACTVET, Dr Adelaide Ngalemwa, said AI was diminishing the value of individual creativity if relied upon excessively.
“AI offers significant opportunities to streamline creative work, but there is a risk of reducing the value of personal creativity if it is overly depended upon,” she said.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Week, we must view AI as a tool to assist us, not as a replacement for human thought and innovation. Over-relying on AI could lead to the loss of uniqueness in our work and reduce competition in the job market and entrepreneurship.”
Dr Ngalemwa also noted that NACTVET is using the occasion of International Women’s Day to encourage women to focus on vocational skills, which have provided many with opportunities to acquire expertise and boost their economic status through creative businesses.
She urged young girls in schools to prioritise acquiring skills and knowledge to meet both national and international job market demands. Additionally, she called on parents to nurture their children’s talents from an early age.
“If you see your child learning to braid hair, sew, or create various items, do not discourage them. Recognise their abilities early on and help them develop into innovators, because today’s world requires skilled and creative professionals,” she said.
Meanwhile, a lecturer in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Nelson Mandela University, Dr Elias Kimaro, echoed the sentiment that while AI is a valuable tool for enhancing creativity, its use should be carefully monitored to prevent negative effects such as job losses and weakened personal innovation.
He encouraged women to strengthen their technological skills by participating in various training programmes that will empower them to use AI effectively.
“At the same time, I urge you to continue developing human knowledge to enhance your creativity without relying solely on artificial intelligence systems,” he said.
