This year, as Chair of the AI in EdTech Stewardship Group, I’m looking forward to continuing to support our members navigating AI in education in thoughtful, practical, and locally grounded ways. It’s timely that our first newsletter of the year returns to conversations that helped set our direction.
At Founders’ Day 2025, our workshop on AI made clear that Aotearoa’s EdTech sector is not waiting to see what happens next. Members shared concrete examples of AI already shaping products and classrooms, from easing teacher workload to supporting more inclusive learning experiences. Just as striking was the shared commitment to doing this responsibly, in ways that align with educational values, community expectations, and trust.
What emerged was not a push for rapid adoption, but a desire for confidence, coordination, and shared learning. Founders spoke about the value of learning from peers, designing alongside educators and communities, and framing AI as a co-pilot that strengthens rather than replaces professional judgment. There was palpable energy around what becomes possible when innovation is supported collectively rather than pursued alone.
We can now carry these insights forward to a sector ready to build capability, deepen collaboration, and turn momentum into meaningful progress as we shape the next chapter of AI-enabled education technology together. It will be a most exciting year for us all!
Ngā mihi,
Dr Guy Bate
Chair, AI in Education Technology
EdTechNZ Stewardship Group
Read full news here: Building AI confidence together