Dear Youth,

Congratulations – whether we realize it or not, we are witnessing a growing dependence on AI among the younger generation.

Please don’t misunderstand me. AI is a remarkable innovation, and I am also a beneficiary of its many advantages.

However, I write today to raise awareness about an emerging concern—our increasing reliance on these tools. In recent times, I have encountered and worked with young people who now struggle with creativity—individuals who no longer see the need to think through project titles, craft email responses, or even reply to simple messages to loved ones without assistance.

We are gradually nurturing a generation that finds it difficult to think, respond, or engage intellectually without first turning to platforms like ChatGPT and other AI tools.

Let me be clear: AI is a blessing. It is designed to simplify work, not to replace the desire or ability to think and create. Please read that again.

I am concerned for my generation and the next if we reach a point where we can no longer:

• Relate with friends and family without first asking AI how to engage.
• Develop our own thought processes before responding to texts, emails, or calls.
• Write our biographies, CVs, or personal profiles without first going to AI.
• Hold meaningful conversations without relying on AI tools.
• Conduct research or develop project and thesis ideas independently.
• Complete schoolwork or assignments without depending entirely on AI.

We need help – but even more importantly, we need young people who are willing to help themselves.

Mastery comes from within, not from tools. You are first a product of your thoughts – not a product of AI.

And yes, for transparency – I wrote this myself and only used AI for grammar refinement.

Yours in Youth and Community Service,

Mayowa Ajibodu [Mr. Shun]