Gus Yasin: Master AI and Science, But Don't Abandon Morals
Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen has encouraged the younger generation to master science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) whilst upholding Islamic values as their foundation. He stated that these capabilities are increasingly crucial amid the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI).
“Technological development cannot be avoided,” said the figure familiarly known as Gus Yasin during his address at a scholarship award ceremony for santri and Islamic boarding school caretakers in Semarang on Wednesday.
According to Gus Yasin, technological progress must be met with improved human resource capacity. The younger generation should not merely be technology users, but must understand and utilise it to address society’s needs.
He therefore urged scholarship recipients to master modern science, technology, and skills without abandoning the traditions and scholarly values that form the foundation of religious education.
Gus Yasin believes that combining STEM with Islamic education can produce human resources with distinctive character. Technological mastery provides the ability to face changing times, whilst religious values serve as a foundation for determining the purpose and manner in which technology is used.
He argued that the solution is not to avoid technological development, but to direct it so that it benefits education and society.
This challenge has become more apparent as AI enters various aspects of life, including education. AI-based technology can now assist with information searches, data processing, translation, material preparation, and various other learning activities.
Gus Yasin cautioned that such convenience must not cause students to lose their thinking process. AI should be positioned as a learning support tool, not a shortcut to completing tasks without understanding the material being studied.
Therefore, the ability to use AI must be accompanied by adequate literacy. Users must be able to verify information generated by the technology, understand its limitations, and determine whether the information can be accounted for.