Name: WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025
Start: 2025-07-07T07:00:00+02:00
End: 2025-07-11T23:00:00+02:00
Location: Palexpo

AI (and) education: Convergences between Chinese and European pedagogical practices

Beijing Institute of Technology; DiploFoundation / Geneva Internet Platform

Session 155

Monday, 7 July 2025 14:00–14:45 (UTC+02:00) Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation Room L, Palexpo Interactive Session 1 Document

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more and more integrated into our economies and societies, there is an urgent need to develop effective pedagogical frameworks that prepare learners for the AI era. This session, co-organised by institutions with deep expertise in technology, education, and international collaboration, will explore the convergences and divergences between Chinese and European approaches to AI education. Drawing on historical context, insights from research, and practical experiences, the session will examine how AI can be best integrated into education systems to foster critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, while addressing ethical and cultural considerations.

The session will build on recent discussions about the role of AI in reshaping education, including the need for AI literacy, the importance of cross-cultural dialogue, and the transformative potential of AI tools. By bringing together experts from China and Europe, the session will highlight innovative pedagogical practices, discuss challenges, and propose actionable steps to ensure that education for the AI era is inclusive, equitable, and future-ready.

Objectives:

Explore how to develop effective education for the AI era, emphasising AI literacy, and ethical considerations.
Examine different pedagogical practices in China and Europe, focusing on innovation and cultural relevance.
Discuss practical steps for fostering international collaboration in shaping the future of AI education.

Session format:

This interactive session will take the form of an open dialogue where the two co-moderators will provide insights and guide a discussion around the following topics:

The AI era and education
- Brief overview of the profound impact of AI on education globally.
- Historical context: Drawing parallels with past educational reforms during technological revolutions.
Pedagogical practices in China and Europe
- Examination of Chinese educational philosophies, particularly the influence of Confucianism, and of European educational models, highlighting approaches that prioritise creativity and critical thinking.
- Discussion on contemporary practices, such as collaborative learning and cross-disciplinary methods, and the integration of technology in classrooms.
- Discussion on strengths and weaknesses of Chinese and European pedagogical practices in the context of AI. Identification of common goals such as fostering critical thinking, creativity, and ethical considerations in AI usage among students.
- Reflections on case studies showcasing successful AI integration in educational settings.
A vision for AI-enhanced education and practical steps for international cooperation in this field
- Outlining elements of a shared vision for the future of education in the AI era, with a focus on issues such as suggestions for curriculum development that incorporates AI literacy, ethical considerations, and adaptability in learning methodologies.
- Brainstorming on how to leverage Chinese and European approaches and expertise to advance international cooperation in shaping the future of AI (and) education.

Mr. Jovan Kurbalija Executive Director DiploFoundation

Dr Jovan Kurbalija is the Executive Director of DiploFoundation and Head of the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP). He was a member of the UN Working Group on Internet Governance (2004‒2005), special advisor to the Chairman of the UN Internet Governance Forum (2006‒2010), and a member of the High Level Multistakeholder Committee for NETmundial (2013‒2014). In 2018-2019, he served as co-Executive Director of the Secretariat of the United Nations (UN) High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation.

A former diplomat, Jovan has a professional and academic background in international law, diplomacy, and information technology. He has been a pioneer in the field of cyber diplomacy since 1992, when he established the Unit for Information Technology and Diplomacy at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta and later, DiploFoundation.

Since 1997, Jovan’s research and articles on cyber diplomacy have shaped research and policy discussions on the impact of the Internet on diplomacy and international relations. His book, An Introduction to Internet Governance, has been translated into 9 languages and is used as a textbook for academic courses worldwide. He lectures on e-diplomacy and Internet governance in academic and training institutions in many countries, including Austria (Diplomatic Academy of Vienna), Belgium (College of Europe), Switzerland (University of St Gallen), Malta (University of Malta), and the United States (University of Southern California).

His publishes regular articles on DiploFoundation’s blog, and the Huffington Post.

Hao Liu Executive Chair, School of Global Governance Beijing Institute of Technology

Professor Liu possesses in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in Air and Space Law, Digital Economy, and Global Governance. His professional journey has been marked by a dedication to the advancement of emerging technologies and aerospace operations, including unmanned aviation, sub-orbital flight, Higher Airspace Operation (HAO), commercial space ventures, and the integration of the digital economy with artificial intelligence.

Actively participating in key international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS), Professor Liu plays an instrumental role in driving innovation and supporting the emergence of new businesses in the aerospace sector.

Since 2009, he has been deeply involved in shaping the air, space, and digital economy legislation within China, making significant contributions to the field’s development and progress.

Currently, Professor Liu holds the positions of Executive Chair at the School of Global Governance, Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), and Secretary General of JARUS.

Topics

Artificial Intelligence Capacity Building Digital Skills Education

WSIS Action Lines

C3. Access to information and knowledge
C4. Capacity building
C7. ICT applications: benefits in all aspects of life — E-learning

Sustainable Development Goals

Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Documents

Outcome document