The world is currently witnessing the fourth industrial revolution, marked by the rapid development of AI. In light of these technological advancements, it is imperative that BRICS members come together, capitalizing on their respective technological strengths to create personalized AI solutions that serve the interests of their populations. Furthermore, the convergence of education, technology and sustainable growth in the digital age emerges as a major concern that requires immediate attention.
While the digital age offers many opportunities, it also risks widening the social gap between rich and poor, which could exacerbate inequalities or create new inequalities. To seize opportunities and mitigate risks, the application of science and technology, as well as collaboration and significant structural changes, are essential.
The deep and growing friendship between Brazil and China demonstrates the power of international cooperation, particularly in the fields of education and technology. Our mutual efforts in these areas have the potential to create lasting global impact and demonstrate that collaboration between countries is essential to addressing the complex challenges of our time.
China and Brazil agree that education is the foundation on which sustainable development and technological progress rest. As Brazil and China continue to deepen their cooperation – including through educational exchanges, technological innovations and shared research initiatives – their partnership shows the world how international cooperation can shape the future.
China has made remarkable progress in education, making significant progress at the basic and higher education levels. China’s commitment to combining traditional educational excellence and innovation makes the country a global leader in education. China’s experiences offer valuable lessons for Brazil, which faces challenges in terms of universal access to quality education, particularly in remote areas.
China’s emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), for example, provides a roadmap for Brazil as the latter strives to expand its capabilities in these critical areas. By learning from China’s approach, Brazil can accelerate its own efforts to train the next generation of scientists, engineers and artificial intelligence specialists who will drive future technological innovations.
China has become a global leader in technological innovation, with advancements in AI among the most cutting-edge in the world. Brazil, on the other hand, with its strong academic community and growing technology sector, has also made significant progress in innovation. The two countries complement each other through their strengths. Brazil, with its diverse population and natural resources, provides an ideal landscape for implementing and testing AI solutions, while China brings expertise in the research, development and large-scale implementation of AI.
For Brazil, integrating AI into its education system could help solve long-standing problems, such as inequality in access to quality education. AI-based learning platforms could allow students in remote areas to access the same educational resources as those in urban centers. China, which has already integrated AI into many aspects of its education system, offers a valuable model for how Brazil can scale these technologies to ensure equitable and effective education.
However, cooperation between Brazil and China goes beyond AI. Student exchanges, joint research projects and collaborative academic programs have further strengthened ties between the two nations. These exchanges promote not only technological advancements but also cultural understanding, creating a dynamic environment for sharing innovative educational practices.
As the world becomes more and more interconnected, the importance of international cooperation in technology, AI and education cannot be overstated. The Brazil-China partnership, which encompasses various forms of collaboration in different frameworks like BRICS, stands as a shining example of how cooperation can fuel innovation, overcome common challenges and create new growth opportunities. By continuing to develop this relationship, Brazil and China are not only paving the way for success, but also contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable global community.
By focusing properly and committing to cooperation and collaboration, Brazil and China can help shape a future where technology and education work hand in hand to drive equitable and sustainable development for all.
The author is rector of IESB University, Brazil, and former Brazilian Minister of Education.
The opinions do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
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