‘Shaping AI for the Next Generation’: An Expert Panel At Oxford University By Codex

“Shaping AI for the Next Generation” at Reuben College, Oxford University, organised by Codex, explores the impact of AI on children's future. Experts from AI, education, and technology, including Joana Lenkova, Dr. Ellen Helsper, Kayla Blomquist and Antonia Kerle, will discuss how AI can enhance learning, creativity, and social relationships while addressing ethical concerns.

Technology continues to shape every aspect of our lives. With rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), it’s crucial to understand how these innovations impact future generations, particularly children. 

The global AI market is expected to reach around $757 billion this year and may grow to over $3.6 trillion by 2034, with a steady annual growth rate of about 19%, according to Precedence Research. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, its influence on education, human relationships, and personal development cannot be overlooked. 

A thought-provoking panel discussion on May 14, 2025, titled ‘Shaping AI for the Next Generation’, at Reuben College, Oxford University, organised by Codex. The event brings together leading figures from the fields of AI, education, and technology, including Joana Lenkova, Dr. Ellen Helsper and Antonia Kerle to explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on children’s future. This insightful discussion will address both the opportunities and challenges of AI, aiming to ensure a sustainable, equitable future for the next generation.

Mark Twain once famously said, “There are two important days in your life, the day you were born, and the day you find out why.” 

Expert panellists of leading AI and education authorities

The event will feature thought leaders from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective on AI’s role in shaping the future of children. Among the esteemed speakers are:

• Joana Lenkova, Futurology Director at The LEGO Group, has developed advanced foresight capabilities and integrated futures intelligence into strategic leadership decisions. Joana has played a pivotal role in shaping business strategies across a variety of sectors, including at AB InBev, Societe Generale, and The Walt Disney Company.
• Dr. Ellen Helsper, Professor of Digital Inequalities at the London School of Economics, whose research focuses on the intersection of digital technology and social inequalities. She will bring valuable insights into how AI impacts children in different socio-economic contexts and the broader implications of digital divides.
• Alan Greenberg, an EdTech Specialist and Investor, has worked extensively in the education technology space. Alan will address the ways in which AI is revolutionising learning and education tools, making them more accessible and effective for the next generation.
• Kayla Blomquist, Director at the Oxford China Policy Lab and a DPhil researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute, whose expertise includes AI governance and the international impact of US-China relations. Kayla will share her insights on how global approaches to AI development can shape the future of children’s education.
• Antonia Kerle, Chief Technical Adviser at the BBC, has extensive experience in media and technology. Antonia’s focus on trust in digital content and media will be central to discussions about AI’s role in shaping children’s perceptions and beliefs in the digital age.

‘Shaping AI for the Next Generation’ at Oxford University

The event will be held at Reuben College, Oxford University, located at Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QP, United Kingdom, on 14 May 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The evening will begin with a Registration and Drinks session at 6:00 pm, followed by the ‘Shaping AI for the Next Generation’ Panel Discussion at 6:30 pm. The discussion will last for an hour, with time allocated for a Q&A session. The evening will conclude with a Drinks Reception from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm.

Attendees will leave the event with a deeper understanding of AI’s role in shaping the future of education, creativity, and human interaction, as well as actionable insights on how to address the challenges that AI presents. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from leading experts on how AI can be harnessed to benefit the next generation, while also discussing its risks and ethical implications.

Key topics to be discussed at the event

The panel discussion will cover several crucial topics related to AI’s role in the development of children. These include:

AI in Education: Panellists will explore how AI is revolutionising the educational landscape by personalising learning experiences, enabling children to learn at their own pace, and empowering educators with cutting-edge tools.

Discovering Passion and Purpose: Can AI expose children to a wide range of experiences and opportunities? How can AI assist in discovering a child's true passion and purpose, ensuring they thrive in the future?

AI and Social Relationships: As AI continues to influence how we communicate, the event will examine how AI-powered communication tools are reshaping social interactions and the fundamental ways in which humans connect with each other.

Ethical Challenges of AI: The ethical implications of AI in children's lives are a crucial part of the discussion. How can we balance the benefits with the need to safeguard privacy, autonomy, and security?

Impact on Creativity and Self-Identity: The panel will also tackle the profound impact AI has on children’s sense of self and creativity, and how it may shape their future in unforeseen ways.

Trust in Media and Content: With the rise of AI-generated media, the event will discuss the importance of building trust in creative content and media generated by AI systems.

About Codex

Codex takes its name from Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, known as the "Codex," which reflect his vast curiosity and visionary ideas that were far ahead of their time. Codex strives to embody this spirit of innovation, bringing together technology leaders and entrepreneurs to apply their creativity to advance technologies that will continue transforming lives. Codex hosts events and Codex Talks that share the insights of today’s great innovators, allowing them to present bold ideas for the future. Through these platforms, Codex seeks to foster a culture of forward-thinking that can lead to meaningful change in society and technology.

Founded in London in 2005, Codex has become a respected platform for high-profile speakers from business, science, technology, politics, and media. Over nearly two decades, Codex has hosted some of the world’s most influential leaders, including Nobel Laureates, CEOs, and experts in various fields. These speakers share their knowledge and insights on the latest technologies and ideas, engaging audiences in meaningful dialogue and cross-industry debate. Codex is committed to creating opportunities for learning and collaboration, offering a space where transformative technologies and bold ideas can be discussed and explored.