This study explores educators' perceptions of the challenges and opportunities of using artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The research aimed to understand how AI can be integrated into teaching and learning practices, highlighting its applications in research and learning platforms. Through a qualitative analysis of educators' responses, the study identified ten key subthemes of concerns, including fears of AI replacing human educators, potential negative impacts on student development, and the overreliance on AI platforms. Educators emphasized the importance of effective AI training and the need to prioritize human expertise over excessive reliance on AI. They also recognized both the advantages and disadvantages of AI, viewing it as both a potential boon and a looming threat. The study also identified twenty subthemes of opportunities that AI offers, such as enhancing learner motivation, facilitating personalized learning experiences, and providing interactive tutoring. These opportunities were found to outweigh the concerns and risks associated with AI. The research highlights the need for educators to be trained in the responsible and effective use of AI, as well as the importance of balancing AI use with human expertise. The findings suggest that while AI has the potential to transform education, it should be used in a way that supports, rather than replaces, human educators. The study concludes that AI can be a valuable tool in education when used thoughtfully and with proper training, but it is essential to address the challenges and ethical considerations associated with its use.This study explores educators' perceptions of the challenges and opportunities of using artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The research aimed to understand how AI can be integrated into teaching and learning practices, highlighting its applications in research and learning platforms. Through a qualitative analysis of educators' responses, the study identified ten key subthemes of concerns, including fears of AI replacing human educators, potential negative impacts on student development, and the overreliance on AI platforms. Educators emphasized the importance of effective AI training and the need to prioritize human expertise over excessive reliance on AI. They also recognized both the advantages and disadvantages of AI, viewing it as both a potential boon and a looming threat. The study also identified twenty subthemes of opportunities that AI offers, such as enhancing learner motivation, facilitating personalized learning experiences, and providing interactive tutoring. These opportunities were found to outweigh the concerns and risks associated with AI. The research highlights the need for educators to be trained in the responsible and effective use of AI, as well as the importance of balancing AI use with human expertise. The findings suggest that while AI has the potential to transform education, it should be used in a way that supports, rather than replaces, human educators. The study concludes that AI can be a valuable tool in education when used thoughtfully and with proper training, but it is essential to address the challenges and ethical considerations associated with its use.