AI adoption in Latin American universities sparks debate over critical thinking and cybersecurity

In Colombia, a recent survey shows 91 % of university students regularly use artificial‑intelligence tools for coursework. SONDA, a digital‑transformation firm, warns that this widespread, uncontrolled adoption creates new cyber‑security vulnerabilities and erodes students’ ability to think analytically. Lorena Pachón of SONDA Colombia said, “Estamos empezando a delegar el pensamiento crítico en la inteligencia artificial… cuando un estudiante deja que la IA resuma o estructure información, puede perder etapas clave donde realmente ocurre el aprendizaje.”

In Costa Rica, the Universidad Americana will host a “Semana de la Educación 2026” from 4‑8 August to examine teachers’ roles amid the rise of AI in classrooms. Organisers stress that while AI can automate tasks, skills such as critical thinking, emotional support and ethical judgment remain uniquely human. Fernanda Segura, coordinator of the university’s Education Observatory, noted, “La inteligencia artificial llegó para quedarse… el desafío no consiste en competir con ella, sino en aprender a integrarla de manera ética y pedagógica.”