Siena:At the recent IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings, the focus was on the potential of 'Small AI' to generate employment opportunities in developing countries. The event emphasized using small-scale, low-cost AI technologies to address specific local needs, benefiting sectors like education, healthcare, and agriculture. World Bank President Ajay Banga, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, and Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam highlighted these opportunities.
According to Thai News Agency, the World Bank aims to leverage AI as a tool for job creation, given that 1.2 billion young people will enter the workforce in the next 15 years. The focus is on building infrastructure such as schools and health clinics while nurturing governance and supportive policies to stimulate private investment. Banga emphasized the crucial role 'Small AI' can play in enhancing productivity and efficiency in various sectors.
Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam stressed the need for developing countries to prepare for AI-driven economic growth. He pointed out that while AI can create human-suitable jobs, opportunities in manufacturing and renewable energy sectors should also be explored. This approach could help developing countries take advantage of their labor cost benefits and generate employment through energy security and healthcare improvements.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva described AI as a transformative force, likely affecting 40% of global employment. She noted the necessity for governments to rethink education systems to equip the workforce with technological skills essential for the AI era. Georgieva recommended fiscal preparedness and adjustments in tax structures to accommodate these changes, stressing the importance of lifelong learning.
Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister, Ekniti Nitithan, presented a strategic vision for integrating AI into the country's development. His approach includes enhancing productivity with AI tools, attracting investment in AI infrastructure, and supporting workers through technological transitions. Nitithan also underscored the importance of international collaboration to manage online threats and ensure responsible AI use.