BRICS Countries Turn to Digitalisation, AI to Reshape Education Systems

BRICS countries are increasingly adopting digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to modernise education systems and prepare skilled professionals for future labour markets, according to a recent report.

The BRICS group — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — accounts for more than one-third of the world’s school-age population, giving education reforms within the bloc significant global implications.

According to TV BRICS, experts say digital learning platforms and AI-based tools can help address long-standing challenges such as unequal access to education, shortages of qualified teachers and linguistic diversity. Adaptive learning technologies allow education to be tailored to individual students, improving academic outcomes and expanding access, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

Despite the opportunities, major obstacles remain. Digital inequality continues to limit progress in several BRICS countries due to gaps in internet connectivity, access to devices and digital skills among educators. Concerns over data protection, ethical use of AI and regulation of educational technologies have also emerged as key challenges.

To overcome these barriers, BRICS countries are strengthening cooperation through joint academic programmes, student exchanges, online learning initiatives and shared research projects. Officials expect cross-border digital education programmes within the bloc to expand significantly over the coming years.

Analysts note that while digitalisation will broaden access to education, traditional institutions will continue to play a central role, particularly in advanced research, critical thinking and leadership training. Hybrid education models combining classroom instruction with AI-driven digital tools are increasingly seen as the most viable approach.

As BRICS countries accelerate education reforms, policymakers stress that investment in digital infrastructure and inclusive access to technology will be essential to ensure that AI-enabled education benefits students across all social and economic backgrounds.