Frank Jones, General Secretary, attended a European workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Education: Building a Union Strategy for Advocacy in Tbilisi, Georgia on Tuesday, 24 March.
The workshop, organised by European Trade Union Committee for Education ETUCE in partnership with the Educators and Scientists Free Trade Union of Georgia, brought together education trade union representatives from across Europe to examine the growing impact of artificial intelligence on education systems and the teaching profession.
The event focused on equipping unions with the knowledge and tools required to respond effectively to the rapid expansion of AI in education. Discussions centred on identifying policy gaps, strengthening union advocacy, and laying the groundwork for a forthcoming European guide on collective bargaining and AI in education.
Participants shared experiences from their respective countries, highlighting a fragmented policy landscape across Europe, with varying levels of regulation, guidance, and engagement with trade unions. A common theme was the urgent need for stronger safeguards, clearer regulatory frameworks, and meaningful social dialogue to ensure that AI supports—rather than undermines—educators’ professional autonomy and working conditions.
The workshop also emphasised the importance of unions taking a proactive role in shaping AI policy. Contributions stressed that artificial intelligence must serve education workers and students, with robust protections around data, ethics, and professional standards.
Reflecting on the event, Frank noted that the workshop was both timely and informative, providing valuable insights into how trade unions across Europe are responding to the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education. He highlighted the importance of continued engagement at both national and international levels to ensure that the voice of educators is central to the development and governance of AI in the sector.
IFUT will continue to engage with European partners and national stakeholders to ensure that developments in artificial intelligence enhance, rather than diminish, the quality of education and the working lives of those who deliver it. We expect to organise a seminar later in the year to focus on the impacts of AI on assessment in the higher education sector.