Artificial intelligence (AI) can never replace human life, so when faced with bullying, one must not remain silent like a robot.
That is the message AI Education Robot, an original short film by SJK(C) Yen Min, aims to drive home.
Teacher Chu Chong Sing, himself a bully victim in school, said the film was inspired by his own painful experience, which made him determined to speak up for others like him.
“The story is set in the year 2030, when AI robots are introduced in schools to help teach and guide students. Without giving too much away, this leads to bullying and highlights the serious harm it can cause.
“I wanted to make this film as a reminder for society not to take the issue lightly, so that schools can once again be safe and caring places. Society needs to be more aware and empathetic towards victims of bullying,” he told StarEdu, adding that the film, which runs under 15 minutes, portrays real conflicts among students and the deep emotional impact they can leave on individuals.
With only 44 students, SJK(C) Yen Min is a low enrolment school, or SKM (Sekolah Kurang Murid), said Chu.
So, everything, from the scriptwriting, directing and acting to the post-production work, was done by the school community, he shared.
He added that the film, made entirely using a mobile phone, features a cast comprising pupils in Years Two and Three, and the teachers themselves.
“This film proves that even a small school can have big dreams.
“Despite their busy schedules, teachers dedicated their afternoons, weekends and holidays to participate in filming, demonstrating strong teamwork and unity.
“Even our headmistress Tan Phik Hui agreed to act in it as a show of support.
“The AI robot, which is one of the main characters, is played by our talented pupil Muhammad Firash Abdul Rasyid,” he shared.
Directed by Chu, an educator passionate about filmmaking, AI Education Robot integrates elements of education and technology, featuring an AI robot as the main character to explore human values, empathy and respect.
Using video as a medium to communicate educational values through thought-provoking stories, Chu’s previous works include The Magic Research Team (2007), an educational film about the process of product creation; Angels and Demons (2009), which explores different perspectives of parents, teachers and students towards education; and Dreams Come True (2013), which highlights the need for students to pursue their dreams.
AI Education Robot is free for viewing on https://youtu.be/2SY9B_-Qu0Q.
