Peru's teachers confront AI-driven training challenges

As Peru celebrates Teacher's Day, educators are urged to adapt to artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping classrooms. A recent Ipsos study found 51 % of Peruvians believe solid academic preparation remains the core teacher competency, but five additional skills – socio‑emotional abilities, innovative pedagogy, digital and AI literacy, and the capacity to learn and unlearn – are now deemed essential.

The Ministry of Education has launched AI‑focused training, with more than 87 000 of the roughly 430 000 public‑sector teachers completing courses. Meanwhile, a national AI report showed 95 % of university students already use AI tools, yet over half feel inadequately trained to exploit them. Critics argue the pace of AI development outstrips continuous teacher development, warning that insufficient preparation could widen educational gaps. PISA 2022 results highlight underlying challenges, with only half of Peru’s 15‑year‑olds reaching minimum reading standards and even fewer meeting math benchmarks. The debate underscores the need for systemic, merit‑based teacher upskilling to ensure effective AI integration in Peru’s schools.