Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Saqib Bhatti MP, responds to future of AI skills request
The AI in Work and Skills Forum received a direct response from Saqib Bhatti MP MBE, the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, addressing our query on the future of AI skills in the workforce. His insightful response sheds light on the UK Government’s commitment to developing an AI-skilled workforce, equipped not only technically but also ethically.
Mr. Bhatti highlighted the government’s recent publication of a guidance document designed to help businesses identify essential skills for non-technical workers in the AI-driven workplace. This document emphasises understanding the ethical implications of AI, marking a significant advancement in the UK’s approach to integrating AI into the workforce.
In full, our question:
“Hello Saqib. Firstly, congratulations on the new role. We wish you well. Our question is about AI skills. How will the government be working with sector industries to ensure ethical use of AI for the future of workforces?”
Mr. Bhatti’s response:
“Today we published the first version of a new guidance document which helps businesses identify what skills their non-technical workers need to be able to successfully use AI in the workplace. Understanding the ethics of AI use is threaded throughout the guidance. In the new year we will also be publishing sector-specific case studies in sectors such as transport and creative industries.
Read more:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-business-guidance-to-boost-skills-and-unlock-benefits-of-ai“
What This Means for the AI in Work and Skills Forum
Mr. Bhatti’s response aligns perfectly with the Forum’s objectives to foster a workforce adept in AI. It acknowledges the need for a holistic approach to AI education – one that includes ethical considerations as a core component. This validation from the government propels our mission forward, reinforcing the importance of our upcoming consultations in Birmingham (10th January 2024) and Manchester (11th January 2024).
Upcoming Consultations: A Platform for Discussion and Action
These consultations, planned in response to the government’s guidance, aim to dive deeper into strategies for effective AI skills development. We invite industry leaders, educators, policy makers, and AI enthusiasts to join these discussions. Together, we will explore how various sectors can implement the government’s recommendations to foster an ethically informed AI-skilled workforce.
Registrations for the events are now open: Manchester event registration and Birmingham event registration.
The UK Government’s initiative, coupled with the AI in Work and Skills Forum’s efforts, signifies a collaborative step towards a future where AI is not just a tool for efficiency but a catalyst for responsible and inclusive growth. We are excited about this synergy and look forward to contributing significantly to the development of AI skills in the workforce.
For more information about the guidance, our response, and the upcoming forum events, please visit https://aiworkandskills.com
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The AI in Work and Skills Forum brings together the best leaders, practitioners, thinkers and policy makers in and around AI to discuss its impact on aspects of work and the skills we need.
