Spanish and Mexican universities expand AI programs, sparking ethics debate

Since 2020 Spanish universities have launched 25 AI‑focused degree programmes, emphasizing technical subjects such as data science and algorithm design while offering limited coursework in ethics, law and the humanities. A recent Fundación CYD study found that 90 % of Spanish university students regularly use AI tools, 86 % believe the technology improves their performance, yet many report inadequate training and express ethical concerns.

In Mexico, the Instituto Politécnico Nacional is developing an AI‑enabled shirt that records physiological signals and, through deep‑learning algorithms, classifies anxiety‑depressive episodes to aid mental‑health diagnosis. The project is being patented and is presented as a multidisciplinary health‑technology innovation.

The Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua has introduced protocols to detect and address the use of AI‑powered devices during admissions exams, while also revising curricula to incorporate AI learning. Meanwhile, Argentine commentator Juan Pérez argues that the real challenge is not merely teaching AI use but fostering critical thinking and digital citizenship, emphasizing ethical literacy, deep‑work skills and public‑policy support.