A Light in the Dark:
A Personal ExperienceTwo years ago, during one of Lebanon’s electricity cuts, I was studying for a math test by the light of my phone. Our generator had stopped, and the Wi-Fi connection was weak. I remember feeling frustrated, not just because the lesson was difficult, but because everything around me made studying harder. Out of curiosity, I opened an AI tool using my mobile data and asked it to explain a concept I couldn’t understand in class earlier that week. Within seconds, I received a clear, step-by-step explanation. In that moment, sitting in the dark in my home, I realized that even in a country facing crisis, technology could still open a door to learning.
The Reality of Education in Lebanon
Lebanon’s education system has faced enormous challenges in recent years. The economic crisis, rising tuition fees, teacher strikes, and limited resources have placed pressure on both students and educators. Many families struggle to afford private tutoring. Public schools often lack updated materials. Even universities have been affected by instability. In this reality, artificial intelligence has the potential to become a powerful equalizer.
AI can provide students with free or low-cost access to explanations, practice exercises, language correction, and research guidance. A student in a small town with limited educational support can now access digital tools that help clarify lessons in physics, improve writing skills in English or Arabic, or prepare for official exams. For a country like Lebanon, where talent is abundant but resources are limited, this kind of support can make a meaningful difference.
AI as a Mentor, Not a Substitute
However, while AI can assist us, it should never replace the human effort that education requires. Lebanese students are known for their resilience, adaptability, and strong academic foundations. These qualities were not built by shortcuts; they were built by hard work, discipline, and guidance from dedicated teachers. If AI becomes the one that writes our essays, solves all our homework, or thinks in our place, we risk weakening the strengths that define us.
Artificial intelligence should function as a mentor, not a substitute. It can help us understand a difficult chemistry formula, suggest ways to improve an english essay, or provide practice questions before an exam. But the thinking, analyzing, and creating must remain ours. Education is not simply about producing correct answers, it is about developing strong and creative minds capable of solving Lebanon’s future problems.
Building the Future of Lebanon
Our country needs innovative thinkers more than ever. Lebanon is facing economic instability, environmental challenges, and rapid technological change. The students sitting in classrooms today will be tomorrow’s engineers, doctors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and simply lebanon’s future. If we allow AI to do all the intellectual work for us, we will not develop the independent thinking skills necessary to rebuild and strengthen our nation.
At the same time, schools in Lebanon should not ignore AI out of fear. Instead of banning it completely, educators can teach students how to use it responsibly. They can encourage AI as a brainstorming partner, a research assistant, or a revision tool, while emphasizing academic honesty and originality. Students should learn to question AI-generated answers, verify information, and use their judgment. This approach transforms AI into a learning enhancer rather than a threat.
The Human Element That Cannot Be Replaced
Most importantly, AI can never replace the human connection that is central to Lebanese education. The encouragement of a teacher who believes in you, the class discussions filled with different opinions, the friendships formed while studying for exams, these experiences shape not only our knowledge but also our character. No algorithm can replicate empathy, motivation, or the cultural understanding rooted in our communities.
Mastering the Tool, Not Being Ruled by It
In Lebanon, where challenges sometimes overshadow opportunities, artificial intelligence can become a source of hope. It can support students when resources are scarce and provide access to knowledge beyond classroom walls. But we must remain in control. AI should be our tool, not our ruler; our assistant, not our identity.
That night studying in the dark taught me something important: technology can light the way, but it cannot walk the journey for us. As Lebanese students, we must use artificial intelligence to strengthen our abilities, not replace them. If we master AI wisely, it can help empower a generation capable of rebuilding, innovating, and leading Lebanon toward a brighter future.
Cynthia Abed Al Masih Al Tayyar