LISLE, Ill. – Jan. 2, 2025 – Educational institutions are bracing for a technological revolution that promises to reshape the landscape of learning and organizational operations. At the forefront of this transformation are advanced AI applications and heightened cybersecurity efforts, which are set to redefine how we approach education, data management and institutional decision-making.
“Emerging AI tools will revolutionize education, from predictive analytics for student retention to intelligent tutoring systems.” says Chris Campbell, DeVry University’s chief information officer. “As these technologies evolve, we anticipate a greater emphasis on tailoring educational experiences to individual learner needs.”
2024 was a transformative period for the education sector – marked by rapid technological advancements and unprecedented challenges, and 2025 will be no different.
“AI tools are enabling a more personalized and effective learning experience,” adds Campbell. “These technologies are not just enhancing operational efficiency; they're fundamentally changing how we understand and cater to individual student needs. At DeVry, virtual classroom and automated support bots, as well as robust AI models are being leveraged to provide enhanced student and colleague experience while driving organizational efficiency.”
However, “with great power comes great responsibility.” A recent IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV) study found over 94% of business leaders believe that securing AI is important, but only 24% state that their AI projects will incorporate a cybersecurity component within the next six months.
To prepare for these changes, many institutions are and should be developing comprehensive AI training programs for faculty, staff and students. These programs emphasize ethical AI use, proficiency in emerging tools and practical applications that align with academic and professional goals.
“Organizations need to establish robust ethical frameworks and provide comprehensive training on how to use AI responsibly,” Campbell argues. “Without this, risks like unintentional bias or privacy breaches could undermine trust in the technology.”
Additionally, data-driven decision-making will extend beyond operational efficiency.
“We envision analytics driving initiatives in student engagement, curriculum design and institutional performance, enabling evidence-based decision-making at every level,” Campbell adds.
As AI becomes more integrated into educational systems, cybersecurity efforts must keep pace. The increasing sophistication of cyber threats demands a multi-layered approach to security.
“Enhancing our security posture involves implementing zero trust strategies, investing in AI-driven threat detection systems and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness through ongoing training,” he says. “These efforts are crucial not only for protecting sensitive data but also for maintaining trust in the increasingly digital educational environment.”
As we move through 2025, educational institutions are not just adapting to technological changes – they're actively shaping the future of learning.
“CIOs are uniquely positioned to lead AI integration by fostering innovation while addressing ethical concerns,” adds Campbell. “This requires a clear roadmap for adoption, supported by robust governance structures. Additionally, ensuring equitable access to upskilling and reskilling opportunities will be critical. CIOs must work to remove barriers and promote inclusion, especially for underrepresented groups.”
Through partnerships with educational institutions and industry leaders, CIOs can access innovative solutions, share best practices and co-create programs that prepare workforces for the demands of tomorrow. By embracing AI, prioritizing cybersecurity and leveraging data-driven insights, organizations are creating more dynamic, secure and effective educational environments for generations to come.
