Africa-Press – Kenya. Change can be exciting! The Artificial Intelligence popularly known as AI presents a chance to learn, grow, and become the best version of oneself both personally and professionally. Are you up for the challenge?
In a short span, ChatGPT gained popularity as a versatile tool for content creation, including writing speeches and academic essays. Japanese author Rie Kudan utilized ChatGPT for parts of her award-winning novel ‘Tokyo Sympathy Tower’ in 2023.
In Kenya, both private and government entities are adopting AI-generated ads.
For example, a Telco company featured an AI-created ad showing a mother chasing her baby with a loaf of bread, garnering attention online and offline.
This aligns with the Forbes 2024 report projecting the AI market to reach $407 billion by 2027, a substantial growth from its estimated $86.9 billion revenue in 2022.
Indeed, artificial intelligence is influencing most areas of the value chain locally and internationally; including agriculture, healthcare, education, fintech and transport among others.
Besides, Artificial Intelligence is one of the key driving forces for other emerging technologies like big data, robotics and the Internet of Things not to mention generative AI, with tools like ChatGPT and AI art generators garnering mainstream attention; this trend is likely to continue to act as a technological catalyst for the foreseeable future.
The International Monetary Fund’s Managing Director, Kristalina Georgrieva, emphasizes the need for inclusive AI strategies to sustainably integrate human workers with AI technologies, highlighting the importance of upskilling and reskilling for the workforce.
Some Kenyans have started adopting AI and using it in their businesses and daily life. Data released by Internet Search Provider Google in September 2023 found that queries by Kenyans looking for AI courses doubled over the previous year.
Additionally, queries on courses in virtual assistance grew by 450 per cent, for data analysis by 200 per cent and searches for digital marketing courses grew by 200 per cent.
Search engine queries related to AI music generators also increased by 2,200 per cent, AI website builders by 1,600 per cent, AI video generators by 1,400 per cent and logo makers by 1,150 per cent.
Searches for free AI image generators increased by 2,500 per cent. What does this mean to professionals in various fields?
Although it is a good sign that Kenyans are researching AI and using it in their businesses, professionals in the country need to adopt a more focused approach while embracing AI to prepare for the changing future of work.
As businesses and government agencies opt to use inexpensive AI, many young professionals such as content creators, videographers, photographers, copywriters and even journalists might lose their jobs.
Thus, there is need for the workforce to embrace the skill and use of AI and other emerging technologies to align with labour market dynamics.
Kenya has 2500 Artificial Intelligence professionals including machine learning, and data science practitioners among others according to the Association of Artificial Intelligence Kenya 2023 report.
The number is quite negligible since the country boasts of a youthful population according to the 2019 Population and Census results which shows that 75% of the 47.6 million populations is under 35 years old.
To fully harness the potential of AI, the country must invest in building a skilled workforce equipped with the knowledge and expertise to develop, deploy, and manage AI technologies effectively.
What is expected to remain relevant and thrive in the future of work? Among many elements, like mindset shift and adaptability, one needs to possess relevant skills for the future of work.
Furthermore, Kenya’s National ICT Policy recognizes trends in big data, machine learning and AI as emerging technologies that the country is paying attention to.
The Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022-2032 calls for the development of a National AI Strategic Plan as a high-level framework for identifying scientific and technological needs in AI, as well as recommendations for establishing and maintaining the National AI Research Resources, including technical capabilities, governance, administration, assessment, and requirements for security, privacy, and civil rights.
Kenya’s Digital Economy Blueprint identifies the need for the country to develop a digital skills framework in AI.
As the country considers AI policies and regulations to address the potential harm, tackle the challenges, and expand opportunities for AI-based systems, young professionals should explore and take up the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence technology.
In essence, learning AI is not just about acquiring technical skills; it is about empowering oneself to become the architect of your future and driver of positive change in the society.
As Kenya embraces the digital age and seeks to harness the potential of AI for inclusive and sustainable development, investing in AI education and empowerment of its youth population is essential.
By embracing AI education and cultivating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, young workers can position themselves at the forefront of the AI-driven economy and lead Kenya into a prosperous and equitable future.
Today there is a growing demand for information technology professionals from data analysts, machine learning experts, software developers, artificial intelligence, and web developers across the world. One does not need to relocate.
Opportunities are many including remote working. Embracing Artificial Intelligence represents a pivotal opportunity for young people to shape the future and drive innovation in a rapidly evolving world.
As the digital landscape continues to expand and AI technologies become increasingly integrated into various aspects of society, young workers stand at the forefront of this transformative wave.
The writer is the Co-Founder and Managing Director, eMobilis Technology Training Institute.
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