In response to the rapid rise of digital technology and artificial intelligence, the Archdiocese of Mandalay organized a one-day workshop titled “AI and Catholic Youth” on Sunday, October 11, 2026, in Zawgyi Village, Sintkaing Township, Mandalay Division.

The event aimed to educate young Catholics on navigating modern technology responsibly while safeguarding human dignity in an increasingly digital world. The program opened with a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Alphonse Aung Ko Latt, priest-in-charge of youth ministry, followed by interactive training sessions led by Sr. Jane Nway Nway.

The workshop drew participants from across the city of Mandalay as well as surrounding rural villages.

‘Use AI Productively and Beneficially’

Addressing the gathering, trainer Sr. Jane Nway Nway Ei highlighted the dual nature of emerging technologies. She emphasized that while artificial intelligence offers significant advantages, uncritical or unethical usage poses distinct risks to individuals and communities alike.

“We want young people to use AI—a technology advancing rapidly alongside the modern era—productively and beneficially,” Sr. Jane said. “If it is used carelessly or misused, it can cause unintended problems for oneself, one’s family, the parish, and the surrounding community. Therefore, we organized this training to foster mindful usage, guide youth in avoiding actions that harm human dignity through AI, and encourage them to value and protect that dignity.”

Sr. Jane warned against over-reliance on automated tools, noting that excessive dependence on AI can undermine critical thinking, personal decision-making, and genuine human empathy. She urged participants to nurture their innate talents and intellect rather than delegating moral agency to digital tools.

‘AI Is Not the Answer to Everything’

In his homily during the opening Mass, Fr. Alphonse Aung Ko Latt addressed the broader social challenges posed by widespread smartphone usage and social media addiction among the youth.

He observed that constant digital stimulation often leads to sedentary lifestyles, reduced family participation, and diminished real-world social interactions.

“Now that AI technology has emerged, youth are becoming dependent on it, and their willingness to make personal effort is declining,” Fr. Alphonse remarked. “Thoughts like ‘If I just ask AI, I’ll get the answer’ lead to taking the easy way out.”

“What I want to tell young people is not that you shouldn’t use modern technology, but that you should use it productively in areas that truly support your life and future,” he said. “You must avoid wasting time on it. You need to manage and use your time wisely.”

Positive Engagement from Local Youth

Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that the training provided both practical knowledge and critical moral guidance on digital etiquette, cyberbullying, and AI-generated media misuse.

Augustine Ko Tin Aung Myint, a youth leader, highlighted the practical necessity of the workshop, noting that while many rural youths had heard of AI, few understood how to apply it systematically or avoid its pitfalls.

Margaret, a participant, reflected on the spiritual and ethical dimensions, emphasizing that AI should never be used to humiliate others or generate misleading content that violates human dignity.

Regina Pan Ei, another participant, noted that effective technology use ultimately depends on moral character, stating that without a positive ethical mindset, advanced tools can easily lead users astray.

A Call to Responsible Technology Use

The training concluded with a shared emphasis on responsible technology use, independent thinking, and the protection of human dignity.

Through the program, the organizers sought to encourage Catholic youth to engage with technological developments thoughtfully, using AI as a beneficial tool while remaining grounded in their human values, faith, and responsibility toward others.

As AI continues to shape the world, the Archdiocese of Mandalay’s initiative reflects a growing awareness that young Catholics need both digital skills and moral formation to navigate the opportunities and challenges of the digital age.

By RVA Myanmar Service