AI for Education and Employment: Can We Strike a Balance Between Progress and Planet?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the ultimate paradox. On one hand, it is revolutionizing education and reshaping employment—turning lofty ideas of personalized learning and upskilling into reality. On the other hand, it happens to be a resource-guzzling, water-chugging behemoth that has got climate scientists side-eyeing its carbon footprint. How do we square this circle? That is the dilemma facing educators, policymakers, and anyone who is both excited about AI and worried about the planet.

The Promise of AI

AI’s potential in education and employment is jaw-dropping. Imagine a kid in a remote village logging into an AI-powered learning platform and getting the same high-quality education as someone in a bustling city. Or a workforce training program that tailors lessons for a single mother re-entering the job market, making learning as intuitive as a Netflix recommendation. Pretty amazing, right?

AI is also stepping up in employment. It is not just predicting labor market trends; it is helping individuals fill skill gaps with laser precision. For marginalized groups—women, refugees, people in labor-intensive industries—AI could be the key to unlocking better opportunities and more equitable outcomes.

Source: Vanguard

The Environmental Elephant in the Room

But here is the catch. AI does not run on fairy dust. Training large AI models takes an insane amount of energy and water. Think about this: training a single AI model can emit as much carbon as five cars over their lifetime. Meanwhile, data centers slurp up millions of gallons of water annually to stay cool—ironic for a tech meant to be “cutting-edge.”

And the impact is not theoretical. In regions already battling water scarcity and extreme weather (which is 90 percent of the habitable part of our earth), AI’s resource demands feel like salt in the wound. So, we have to ask: can we really justify this environmental tab when our planet’s burning (sometimes literally)?

The Balancing Act: AI That’s Sustainable

This dilemma is not insurmountable, in my opinion. Here is how we can ride the AI wave without sinking the planet:

1. Be Picky About Your Platforms: Not all AI is created equal. Some providers are greener than others. If you are using AI for education or employment, opt for platforms committed to renewable energy and efficiency. It is like picking the hybrid car over the gas-guzzler—an easy win.

2. Do Not Overdo It: Use AI where it truly matters. Is it enabling education for underserved communities or upskilling people for future-ready jobs? Great. Is it just automating your snack choices? Maybe skip that.

3. Teach Students to Think Green: AI literacy can help with coding and algorithm for sure. But, more importantly we need to understand and acknowledge the environmental footprint of technology. As people who care about the future of our world, we can inspire the next generation to design AI solutions that are as efficient as they are innovative.

4. Offset the Damage: If you are using AI, consider offsetting its impact. Plant trees, fund renewable energy projects, or partner with groups doing the hard work of climate repair. Think of it as a tech karma cleanse.

5. Turn AI Into a Climate Ally: Here is the twist: AI does need to remain a resource hog; it can be turned into be a planet-saving superhero. From optimizing energy grids to spotting illegal deforestation in real time, AI has some serious eco-warrior potential. I think we can double down on these applications!

Keeping It Real

AI is here to stay. It is already shaping how we learn, work, and connect. But progress at the expense of the planet is not progress at all. The challenge is figuring out how to optimize AI’s incredible potential while keeping its environmental costs in check.

As an educator and climate advocate, I believe we can do both. It is about being intentional, asking tough questions, and never settling for “good enough” when it comes to sustainability. Together, I believe, we can chart a course where innovation meets responsibility—because the future deserves nothing less.

What Bangladesh Can Learn from the American Election

I discussed these ideas in my recent (Nov 10, 2024) Dhaka Tribune piece.

My Positionality:

As a Bangladeshi Muslim researcher living and teaching in the U.S., I am no stranger to watching political tides shape people’s lives. This U.S. election, however, got me thinking less like a professor and more like a concerned citizen of two worlds. The choices voters made here reveal some powerful dynamics — identity, economic insecurity, and digital distrust — that do not just belong to America! These factors are reshaping democracies globally, including back home in Bangladesh.

Watching these trends unfold here, where I live and work, feels personal. America’s political landscape is a mirror, and Bangladesh, as a young democracy, could face these same pressures. What happens here is more than just a headline for us; it is a wake-up call. So, let us dive into these lessons and figure out what we can learn to help young democracies like Bangladesh thrive — without getting lost in the same divides.

Photo: Trump supporters cheer and clap at the election night rally in Palm Beach, Florida. Source: BBC

Economic Anxiety Breeds Discontent

In the U.S., economic concerns took the center stage, with 31% of voters citing the economy as the deciding factor in their vote — and a remarkable 79% of these voters choosing Trump. The data shows how financial hardship and rising inflation drove many Americans toward promises of economic reform, especially among those who felt the establishment had left them behind.

For Bangladesh, where economic inequality is palpable, the lesson is clear. Rapid economic growth in Bangladesh has lifted millions out of poverty, yet the benefits remain uneven. The rural-urban divide, combined with inflation and underemployment, risks pushing economically disenfranchised groups into the arms of populist leaders who exploit this discontent. To avoid such divisiveness, Bangladesh must work to create an inclusive economic environment, where the gains of growth reach everyone, not just the privileged few.

The Pull of Identity Politics

Identity was a powerful factor in this election. White evangelical Christians overwhelmingly supported Trump, with 81% casting their vote for the former president. Rural voters, too, backed Trump by 63%, reinforcing how identity and geography shape political loyalties.

Bangladesh is no stranger to the dangers of identity politics, with divisions often based on religion, language, political, and regional identities. While these factors are integral to a nation’s culture, when political parties stoke these divides, it risks undermining social cohesion. Just as identity divides voters in the U.S., it could create lasting fractures in Bangladesh’s democracy if exploited irresponsibly. Building a cohesive democratic society requires that leaders acknowledge and respect these identities, without allowing them to define or divide us politically.

Institutional Distrust and the Spread of Misinformation

Nearly half of American voters reported doubts about the integrity of the election process, with a staggering 81% of those lacking confidence supporting Trump. This mistrust reflects a worrying trend fueled by misinformation, creating a divide that questions the very foundation of democracy.

Bangladesh faces similar challenges with a growing digital population susceptible to misinformation. Left unchecked, false narratives can distort public opinion, creating mistrust in democratic processes and institutions. The urgency of combating misinformation cannot be overstated. Bangladesh must focus on digital/AI literacy and promote transparency, ensuring that misinformation does not corrode public trust in democracy.

Generational Divides Demand New Approaches

In the U.S., younger voters leaned heavily progressive, with 55% of voters aged 18-29 supporting Kamala Harris, while older demographics swung conservative. This generational divide reflects different priorities, with younger voters focused on issues like climate change and social justice, and older voters more concerned with stability and traditional values.

This generational divide reflects different priorities, with younger voters focused on issues like climate change and social justice, and older voters more concerned with stability and traditional values.

Bangladesh, too, has a young population — more than half of the country is under 25. Engaging this demographic in the democratic process is crucial. Young people are not only future voters but also current stakeholders in issues that directly impact their lives, from job opportunities to environmental sustainability. To prevent political disengagement or unrest, Bangladesh must prioritize policies that resonate with youth, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.

A Blueprint for a Resilient Democracy:

The American election highlights how fragile democracy can be, particularly when faced with the forces of economic insecurity, identity politics, institutional mistrust, and generational divides. For Bangladesh, these lessons are invaluable. Democracy is not simply a government structure; it is a contract with citizens. Honoring this contract requires inclusive policies, transparency, and respect for both the old and the emerging voices of a nation.

In the end, this U.S. election is a powerful reminder for both Americans and Bangladeshis that democracy’s true strength lies in our collective commitment to equity, trust, and resilience. Here in the U.S., I see the impact of a divided nation wrestling with questions of identity, economic insecurity, and institutional trust. And in Bangladesh, where I work closely with vulnerable populations like forcibly displaced Rohingya families and unemployed Bangladeshi youth, these issues resonate just as deeply, albeit in different ways.

For both nations, the way forward is clear: we must prioritize institutions that genuinely serve all citizens, especially those on the margins. Very few care about policy talks, people care about societies where everyone has access to a dignified life with food, healthcare, education and employment. People want to live in a society where our young ones see a future for themselves, and where the most vulnerable have a voice. In the U.S., that means bridging divides and rebuilding trust in democratic systems and directly addressing the needs of the general American population. For Bangladesh, it means building a democracy that is inclusive and sustainable, one that addresses real needs and uplifts every citizen.

The stakes are high, but so is the potential! A resilient democracy is more than just winning elections. We need to focus on cultivating a society where different voices strengthens our shared humanity. In both the U.S. and Bangladesh, a thriving democracy will build connections not divides - this will be important to remember. When we commit to inclusion, equity, and collective liberation, we do not simply safeguard democracy, we strengthen it.

The U.S. might take a note from Bangladesh as well — building a future where democracies grow strong, resilient, and united in vision sometimes requires shifting power from the politicians to the people. And sometimes the process may not even look that polished!

References:

Al Jazeera. (2024, August 5). Timeline: The rise and fall of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina. Retrieved November 6, 2024, from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/8/5/timeline-sheikh-hasinas-reign-ends-after-15-years

NBC News. (2024). Exit polls: U.S. election results and voter insights. Retrieved November 6, 2024, from https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-elections/exit-polls

To All the Fools I Know

some people choose to act foolish

it is easy that way

asking questions and finding answers

so hard

the moment it makes you uneasy

you look the other way

i know

life is easy that way

some people do not have it in them

to be brave

to be bold

to be asking questions

to be finding answers

it is OK to be feeling that way

but

do not mistake 

lack of awareness

lack of curiosity

lack of desire to question, to ask, to find, 

to be anything

but 

lazy

it is easy

some people like things easy

they keep themselves busy

with infinite insignificant details

(to avoid staring into the void of 

an empty  vessel of a spirit

haunted by hatred

waiting to leave the body)

like they own the kingdom of lazy

so easy that way

but today,

will you choose easy, busy, lazy 

or do you need answers 

to fill that void

my boldly ignorant, foolish people,

what do you want anyway?

Navigating Shades of Truth

"Imagination is more important than knowledge, knowledge is limited, imagination encircles the world" - Albert Einstein

In the complex tapestry of human conflict, objectivity often blurs into varying shades of subjectivity. This is especially true in the ongoing situation in Palestine, a story of struggle, resilience, and conflicting narratives. Drawing inspiration from Albert Einstein's thought, "Imagination is more important than knowledge, knowledge is limited, imagination encircles the world," this post delves into the essence of empathetic critique while acknowledging the inherent subjectivity in our perceptions.

The Human Element:

At the outset, let us consider the featured image of this post: a child caught in a whirlwind of words and wind, in stark black and white. This image, generated by Chat-GPT-4, powerfully captures the loss of children, innocent people, and empathy for Palestinians. This abstract representation, drawing on multiple existing art pieces by various artists (which is safe to assume), starkly symbolizes the turmoil young lives in Palestine face daily – a reality often obscured by political rhetoric. Even generative AI can portray this harsh truth. How, then, can some of us still turn a blind eye?

Empathy Beyond Facts:

Empathetic evaluation in the context of Palestine goes beyond digesting facts; it requires an understanding soaked in the subjective experiences of those living amidst the conflict. The narratives of a Gazan youth or a West Bank mother are not just footnotes to political discourse; they are the very fabric of this historical truth.

The Power of Narratives:

Stories from both Palestinians and Israelis provide a window into the human spirit prevailing over relentless adversity. These stories allow us to perceive the unimaginable, lending emotions and experiences to what otherwise would be impersonal news. It is crucial to engage with these narratives critically, questioning our own biases and the sources of our information.

Challenges of Empathy:

In embracing empathetic critique, we confront the challenge of acknowledging our biases. True empathy in this context isn’t just about feeling with others; it is also about critically analyzing the structures and systems that perpetuate suffering. It is about recognizing the imbalance of power and questioning narratives that have long been taken for granted.

Opportunities for Dialogue:

Embracing both empathy and critique presents an opportunity for meaningful dialogue. It is about understanding the impact of policies and actions on real people, thereby pushing for more humane and equitable solutions. This form of evaluation bridges the gap between emotional understanding and critical thinking, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the conflict.

Conclusion:

Our exploration of the Palestinian narrative through the lens of empathetic critique reveals that objectivity is often elusive, but understanding can still be achieved. It reminds us of the power of human stories and the need for a critical, yet empathetic approach in interpreting them. Let us not forget Einstein's words and use our imagination to critically engage with the world around us.

A Simple Request:

I urge you to explore beyond headlines. Engage with diverse sources, including firsthand accounts from people in Palestine and Israel. Watch documentaries, read literature, question what you see on Social Media, and critically analyze the information presented to you. If you strive to understand this multifaceted narrative with both our hearts and minds, I believe that you can.

I wish you peace and progress.

Visual Storytelling: A Child Caught in the Whirlwind of War

This AI generated artwork, drawing inspiration from existing art pieces around the world, is a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the urgent need for peace and compassion.

Description:
The picture portrays a young child in a war stricken zone, around 8 years old, standing amidst the rubble of war-torn buildings. The child's eyes hold a profound sadness and fear. In the background, smoke rises from destroyed structures, and distant figures can be seen scurrying for shelter. The sky is a dark, ominous hue, hinting at the looming threat of further violence. I want people to see the contrast between the child's vulnerability and the harsh reality of conflict and act accordingly.

Peace,

fz

Empathy in Evaluation

Hey there,

Today, I want to reflect on something that has been on my mind a lot lately: empathy in evaluation. Whether it is giving feedback at work, critiquing a program/policy, or just interacting day-to-day, I have realized how crucial it is to weave empathy into these moments.

What's Empathetic Evaluation Really About?

Empathetic evaluation is not just trying to see things from another's viewpoint. It is like diving into their world - understanding their motivations, feelings, and struggles. The practice does not mean we toss critical thinking out the window. Instead, we try to embrace the human in me, a little bit more.

Photo: Fatima Zahra. Place: Harlem, New York during the winter of 2021.

Why I Think Empathy in Evaluation is Critical:

1. Connections Get Real: When we evaluate with empathy, we connect on a deeper level. This builds trust and openness, making any feedback we give more likely to land well.

2. A Deeper Dive for Better Insights: Empathy helps us understand the 'why' behind actions. This insight leads to feedback that's not just surface-level but really gets to the heart of things.

3. Growth and Learning Get a Boost: Empathetic evaluation, in my opinion, is not about pointing out what is wrong. It is about understanding and playing to each other's strengths and challenges.

How I am Trying to Implement This:

1. Really Listening: I am working on listening to understand, not just to reply. This means giving my full attention and being genuinely open to what others are saying.

2. Asking More, Assuming Less: I am trying to ask questions that help me get into the other person's shoes instead of jumping to conclusions.

3. Balancing the Good with the Bad: I aim to balance critiques with a nod to what's working well. Acknowledging efforts and successes is just as important as noting what could be better.

4. Tuning Into Emotions: I am learning to recognize and respect the emotions in the mix. Sometimes, understanding how someone feels about their work is as crucial as the work itself.

However, I must acknowledge that empathetic evaluation may not be effective in all situations. The intention to be empathetic is a noble one indeed but a particular context may not allow for it to be effective. People may distrust an empathetic evaluator due to differences in background, race, beliefs, values, or perceived ulterior motives. In racially charged situations, empathy toward minoritized individuals can feel threatening to those clinging to the status quo. In those cases, I recommend accepting these limitations as real and taking a step back to fully understand the context before engaging with the target audience.

What To Do When People Misconstrue Empathy

In racially or ideologically charged environments, the effective evaluator transcends conventional methodological approaches by deploying what might be termed "strategic empathy"—a sophisticated synthesis of rigorous analytical frameworks and nuanced stakeholder engagement. This approach, in my opinion, necessitates explicit recognition of embedded power structures, wherein resistance to evaluation or empathy or both often represents a rational response to perceived threats to institutional hierarchies rather than mere obstruction.

Practically speaking, in environments where race or beliefs cause tension, I suggest, empathetic evaluators must build trust through careful methods and open communication. We need to recognize that people often resist evaluation because they fear losing power or status. To build trust, evaluators should clearly explain why the evaluation matters, show how understanding different perspectives leads to better insights (not bias), and include diverse voices in the process. Using solid data helps create common ground when emotions run high. Building credibility takes time and requires being fair, consistent, and finding supporters within the organization. Effective evaluators, in my opinion, center understanding people's different perspectives with careful analysis, showing that including diverse viewpoints actually makes evaluations more accurate and useful, not less.

Wrapping It Up:

The inclusion of empathy in evaluation creates a major shift in our approach that requires deep commitment, careful methods, and real connection with different viewpoints. This approach brings important benefits: it changes top-down relationships into partnerships based on mutual respect; it improves the quality and completeness of evaluation results by including diverse perspectives; and it builds environments focused on ongoing learning rather than just passing judgment. However, showing empathy does not mean accepting unfair power structures—thoughtful empathetic practice maintains clear ethical standards, understanding that true empathy requires equitable participation and refuses to accept discrimination disguised as understanding. As an evaluation scholar, I urge evaluators to practice openness to different perspectives with clear values, creating spaces that respect human complexity while promoting dignity, justice, and mutual respect.