AI has the potential to bring significant benefits to individuals worldwide, particularly in developing regions spanning Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. These areas face distinct challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, youth unemployment, limited access to education and healthcare, and food insecurity, where AI can offer transformative solutions.
In various parts of the world, our AI tools are already making a difference. For instance, they are optimizing traffic management in cities like Rio de Janeiro, facilitating the expansion of businesses in Southeast Asia, aiding African farmers in early detection of locust outbreaks, and enhancing healthcare outcomes for women in developing nations. Surveys indicate that developing countries exhibit greater optimism towards AI compared to other regions.
Realizing the potential of AI to drive economic growth and opportunities requires collaborative efforts from governments, the private sector, and civil society. To this end, we are introducing the “AI Sprinters” report, outlining strategies for leveraging AI to stimulate economic development through strategic investments and conducive policies. Additionally, we are committing $15 million from Google.org towards AI skills training, with a focus on underserved communities in developing countries.
The “AI Sprinters” report highlights four key recommendations:
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Transformation of infrastructure through the adoption of cloud-first policies: Embracing cloud computing is crucial for the widespread and inclusive deployment of AI systems by governments, local enterprises, and organizations. Policymakers are urged to prioritize cloud solutions over traditional IT systems through cloud-first initiatives.
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Empowerment of individuals through national AI skill initiatives: The advancement of economies through AI hinges on equipping workers with the necessary skills to leverage AI effectively. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to enhance AI literacy, bolster STEM education, and expand online learning opportunities.
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Modernization of national data systems: Access to high-quality datasets representing diverse perspectives, languages, and cultures is vital for training AI models effectively for local markets. Governments are encouraged to optimize data utilization, promote data sharing to enhance public services, and invest in infrastructure to ensure responsible data usage.
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Facilitation of AI-enabling regulation: Sustained AI innovation necessitates a regulatory framework that supports responsible and bold AI deployment. Governments should adopt risk-based regulatory approaches, uphold privacy and copyright frameworks, contribute to international AI standards development, and formulate national AI strategies.
Implementing these recommendations hinges on their integration into country development plans. As world financial leaders prepare to convene for the annual World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings, we urge governments, international institutions, and development agencies to prioritize AI in national development agendas, backed by dedicated funding. While these entities traditionally focus on sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture, AI presents a unique opportunity to revolutionize every facet of the economy.
Technological advancements in the past half-century have lifted billions out of poverty, and AI stands poised to offer a similar transformative impact. With appropriate public policies and investments, developing countries can harness AI’s potential to bridge the digital gap and improve the lives of millions.
