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Will AI really take jobs from tech experts?

Will AI really take jobs from tech experts?

by | Mar 1, 2023 | AI, General, Opinions, Other News

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world of work in unprecedented ways. From automating tasks to enhancing creativity, AI is reshaping how we perform our jobs and what skills we need to succeed. But will AI really take jobs from tech experts, or will it create new opportunities for them?

The answer is not simple or straightforward. AI will have different impacts on different sectors, occupations, and regions. Some jobs may be eliminated or reduced by AI, while others may be augmented or created by it. Some workers may benefit from increased productivity and efficiency, while others may face displacement and skill gaps.

According to a report by the American University School of International Service, AI will lead to increased levels of productivity, specialization in job roles, and increased importance of “human skills” like creativity, problem-solving, and quantitative skills. Although AI will increase economic growth, these gains will not be evenly distributed.

The report also identifies four types of workers who will be affected by AI:

Workers whose tasks are mostly automated by AI. These workers may face job loss or significant changes in their job content and requirements. They will need to reskill or upskill to adapt to new demands or find alternative employment.

Workers whose tasks are mostly augmented by AI. These workers may benefit from improved performance and efficiency, as well as new opportunities for innovation and collaboration. They will need to learn how to use AI tools effectively and leverage their human skills.

Workers who use AI to create new products or services. These workers may enjoy higher incomes and market power, as well as greater autonomy and flexibility. They will need to have advanced technical skills and entrepreneurial mindsets.

Workers who provide services for AI. These workers may experience increased demand and job security, as well as more variety and complexity in their work. They will need to have specialized knowledge and skills related to AI development, maintenance, regulation, or education.

As we can see, AI will have both positive and negative effects on the tech job market. The key challenge is how to ensure that workers are prepared for these changes and can benefit from them. This requires a coordinated effort from governments, employers, educators, and workers themselves.

Some possible solutions include:

  • Investing in education and training programs that equip workers with relevant skills for the future of work.
  • Providing career guidance and counseling services that help workers navigate transitions and opportunities.
  • Supporting innovation ecosystems that foster entrepreneurship and new business models.
  • Promoting social protection policies that protect workers’ rights and welfare.
  • Encouraging social dialogue among stakeholders that fosters trust and cooperation

AI is not a threat or a blessing for tech experts; it is a reality that we need to embrace with caution and optimism. By anticipating its impacts on our jobs and preparing ourselves accordingly, we can make sure that we are not left behind by this technological revolution.

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Central University of Technology introduces Artificial Intelligence university programme in partnership with Microsoft, Free State Government, Gijima

Central University of Technology introduces Artificial Intelligence university programme in partnership with Microsoft, Free State Government, Gijima

by | Aug 4, 2020 | Education, General, Microsoft South Africa

Artificial Intelligence university Microsoft South Africa Free State

Central University of Technology, South Africa, is introducing an Artificial Intelligence university programme powered by Microsoft.

To firstly skill employees with the in-demand skill and secondly address the demand for the skill in the province and South Africa in general.

The Artificial Intelligence university programme is developed by Microsoft and will be delivered by Microsoft Partner Gijima. The initiative is also in partnership with the Free State Provincial Government.

It will comprise of a 12-month blended learning model of self-study, online learning, classroom instructor-led training and a flipped classroom.
The program will include; Mentorship and coaching by industry experts, Business skills, Microsoft Azure AI Associate Certification, Flipped Classroom, Guest Lecturers, Career days, Examination and Certification.

The program is designed to pass on skills employers value and need. By teaching graduates with limited or no work experience to explore, transform, model, and visualise data. As well as to create the next generation of intelligent solutions. 

The collaborative nature of the Artificial Intelligence university Programme will unlock the value of AI and the role it will play in workplaces of the future says Microsoft South Africa Managing Director, Lillian Barnard.

By bringing together private and public sector partners, students, facilitators, mentors, coaches, and industry experts, the programme will enable the development of critical AI skills that will help our young people become more work-ready and employable, as well as help organizations, adapt to the ever-changing demands of the world of work.

Lillian Barnard

The training and certification program started on the 3rd of July 2020 with the Innovation Services of CUT (CUTis) and the Free State Provincial Government. The program will become available to the general public for enrolment from 2021.

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Featured image by: istockphoto.com