Kathmandu—Imagine a world where a 7-year-old can effortlessly use generative artificial intelligence (AI) to solve math problems, create digital art, and even recommend video games.
This is the scenario awaiting Generation Beta (born from 2025 onward to 2039), the first cohort that will be born entirely into a world dominated by artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Unlike Millennials or Gen Z, who learned to adapt to AI as it emerged, Generation Beta will not know a world without it.
“While Generation Alpha has experienced the rise of smart technology and artificial intelligence, Generation Beta will live in an era where AI and automation are fully embedded in everyday life—from education and workplaces to healthcare and entertainment,” researcher Mark McCrindle writes in a blog post. McCrindle projects that this generation will encompass 2.1 billion individuals by 2035.
The integration of AI into daily life presents both opportunities and challenges for Generation Beta, particularly in areas like cybersecurity and digital education safety, which are still underdeveloped in Nepal.
Again, it’s not far-fetched to imagine a 6- or 7-year-old from this generation mastering generative AI—something that is already happening today.
Ashok Khadka, a 21-year-old from Chabahil, Kathmandu, shared how his 7-year-old nephew, a grade 2 student at Clinton School, frequently uses ChatGPT for homework and other tasks.
Recently, his nephew asked ChatGPT for ‘the best video games’, receiving suggestions such as Grand Theft Auto, Mortal Kombat, and Call of Duty.
“These games aren’t suitable for children, so I recommended other options,” Khadka said, adding “This incident made me realize how skilled kids are becoming with AI and how critical it is for adults to guide them.”
AI has become increasingly unavoidable. Even simple Google searches now include AI-generated summaries, altering the way we access information.
“The answer of whether Generation Beta will be empowered by AI’s potential or harmed by its risks depends on how we prepare them today for tomorrow’s challenges,” said Anil Raghuvanshi, founder and president of ChildSafeNet, a Lalitpur-based organization working to protect children and young people online.
“Information has become synonymous with knowledge and wisdom, which is not ideal,” Raghuvanshi said. “The reliance on instant answers will harm critical thinking and creativity.”
The risks extend beyond creativity.
A 2023 report by the Internet Watch Foundation revealed the proliferation of AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Over 20,000 such images were discovered on a single dark web forum in a month, highlighting the urgent need for regulation and enforcement.
Nepal even briefly ranked second globally in Google searches for ChatGPT in 2023. Despite its high interest in AI, the country remains unprepared for the challenges AI brings.
Existing laws, such as the ‘Electronic Transactions Act of 2008’, focus on data protection and privacy but lack specific provisions to regulate AI. Similarly, the Digital Nepal Framework of 2019 outlines digital initiatives but omits AI’s role.
“Nepal’s education system is woefully unprepared for the digital age,” said Dr. Lina Gurung, assistant professor at Kathmandu University School of Education. “Teachers lack training, and policies fail to address AI’s implications for children. Without proper frameworks, the risks far outweigh the benefits.”
The rise in cybercrimes is another concern. The bureau reported 635 cases of cyber violence in fiscal year 2023-2024, a 260.8 percent increase from 176 cases the previous year.
The integration of AI into daily life is inevitable, but ensuring it empowers rather than ensnares Generation Beta requires immediate action.
Raghuvanshi stressed the need for digital safety training, AI regulation, and equipping educators with the tools to guide students responsibly. “It’s high time we prepare for both the good and evil of AI,” he said.
Many countries are revising their policies and implementing necessary changes; for example, the United Arab Emirates even has a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.
Nepal’s Cyber Bureau cautioned the public about the rising misuse of digital platforms, including the use of AI to generate and disseminate misleading or harmful content.
However, according to spokesperson of the Cyber Bureau Superintendent of Police Deepak Raj Awasthi, the current IT department is understaffed to handle the increasing challenges.
As Generation Beta grows up, AI will redefine creativity, knowledge, and relationships. Moreover, it is also certain to add to cybercrime cases.
“We must be ready to tackle it,” Gurung said. The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network
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