Generative AI has been described as an “arrival” technology—sudden, ubiquitous, and seemingly inevitable. But arrival for whom, and at what cost? In this provocative panel, we challenge the narrative of inevitability and examine the complexities of GenAI’s rapid integration into Irish higher education. Are we witnessing the dawn of a more equitable and innovative era—or a moment of unchecked disruption, distraction, and deprofessionalisation?

Drawing on a range of institutional, pedagogical, and policy perspectives, our panellists will explore how educators, technologists, and leaders are responding with agency, caution, creativity, and critique. Together, we will ask not only “Are we there yet?” but also “Where are we going—and do we want to go there?”

Join us to hear from four diverse voices grappling with what this “AI moment” means for the future of education: opportunity, overreach, or something more complex entirely?