Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has endorsed draft amendments to a 2015 ordinance concerning general education, submitted by the Education Ministry. The amendments propose officially integrating artificial intelligence and digital literacy into the curriculum for students from the third to the twelfth grade. In a statement addressed to the caretaker Education Minister, Sergey Ignatov, Delcheva stated that these proposed changes represent a necessary step toward modernizing Bulgarian education amid rapid technological advancements across society.
Delcheva noted that artificial intelligence can serve as a valuable assistant in learning, student research, and creative activities, thereby modernizing the educational environment and improving feedback between educators and students. However, she stressed that technology should support, rather than replace, the cognitive process, emphasizing that AI must function as a guide to knowledge, not a substitute. Furthermore, Delcheva highlighted the necessity for students to develop critical thinking, fact-checking skills, the ability to identify disinformation and algorithmic bias, and ethical responsibility when using AI.
She also outlined the evolving role of the teacher as a mentor and navigator within the digital sphere, beyond merely being a source of knowledge. The Ombudsman pointed out several risks associated with implementing the reform, including the potential widening of the digital divide between regions, the requirement for high-quality teacher training, safeguarding student data, and mitigating risks of plagiarism and over-reliance on technology. Delcheva also recommended the Ministry create a list of certified AI tools for schools and establish rules ensuring child protection and human oversight.
Finally, she stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to mental health in schools, including programs for social and emotional learning, as part of the overall education strategy.
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