Jamaicans encouraged to upskill for the AI era

KINGSTON, Jamaica — With artificial intelligence (AI) advancing rapidly across the globe, Jamaicans are being encouraged to develop skills to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world. Interim Divisional Manager for Information Services at the Scientific Research Council (SRC), Carlinton Burrell, shared that individuals should focus on learning to work with AI rather than fearing it will replace jobs. Burrell added that AI should be viewed as a tool that can help improve productivity and create new opportunities across communities, schools and workplaces. He pointed out that the country's long-term development depends on people acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to emerging technologies. “We don’t need to worry about AI replacing us. What we need to worry about is upskilling and understanding the use and the purpose of AI,” Burrell said. He stressed that Jamaica should aspire to become more than a consumer of AI technologies by building local capacity to develop innovative solutions that generate jobs, create value and contribute to economic growth. The interim divisional manager added that increasing public understanding of AI would help foster greater participation in innovation, entrepreneurship and research, strengthening Jamaica's capacity to compete in an increasingly digital future. Burrell said he remains committed to promoting the development and application of science, technology and innovation to support national growth and improve the quality of life of Jamaicans. — JIS