AI: Friend or Foe?

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda published an opinion piece by Namubiru Anna Fredah reflecting on the rise of artificial intelligence and the tradeoffs it creates for students and everyday users. The author says her first notable use of AI came in 2024 while revising for a biometrics test, when a Copilot-generated explanation helped her understand material that had been difficult to follow. She later noticed that some answers could still lack clear working steps, which led her to question how far AI should be trusted.

The article argues that AI can make people faster and more efficient, but should not replace critical thinking, independent learning or human judgment. The writer says she now uses AI as a support tool while checking information and making sure she understands a topic before passing it on to others. She also notes that AI-generated music, films, ads and documents are becoming part of daily life, which raises broader questions about whether society should adopt, resist or adapt to the technology.

A major concern in the piece is the effect on children and young people. The author warns that polished AI outputs may create unrealistic expectations and could weaken appreciation for imperfection, learning and personal growth. More broadly, the article frames AI as something that may complement human abilities, but cannot fully replicate empathy, lived experience and creativity. The piece appeared on Watchdog Uganda on 2 August 2026.