Employees in the UK have been urged by the technology secretary to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) with enthusiasm rather than fear, lest they fall behind their more tech-savvy counterparts.
Peter Kyle is encouraging both workers and businesses to take immediate action to familiarize themselves with the technology, suggesting that a mere two and a half hours of training can bridge the generational divide in AI usage.
Advancements like the advent of ChatGPT have spurred significant investment in AI technology, yet they have also raised concerns of job displacement across various sectors, including law and financial services.
Kyle stated, “I believe most individuals view AI with apprehension. However, once they begin using it, they find it to be more accessible and fulfilling than expected.”
His comments followed a meeting with tech executives to discuss the government’s new initiative to train 7.5 million UK workers in AI by 2030, with the support of companies like Google, Amazon, and BT.
Kyle affirmed, “There is not a single person currently employed who cannot acquire the skills required for the next five years of economic growth.”
He cautioned, “Handle AI now and you will prosper in the future. Fail to do so, and some individuals will undoubtedly be left behind, which is my greatest concern.”
Addressing the generational gap in AI adoption, Kyle noted that over-55s currently engage with AI at half the rate of those over 35 but believes this gap can be closed with limited training.
“People don’t need to be experts in quantum physics,” he said. “Surely they need to be trained in the basics of how AI operates and how to utilize it within their specific role.”
Speaking at the London Tech Week, Prime Minister Keir Starmer recognized public skepticism about AI, voicing concerns that it may take jobs away. However, he pledged to demonstrate how technology can bring wealth to communities and create quality employment.
Public polls suggest that English-speaking countries such as the UK, US, Australia, and Canada are more uneasy about the rise of AI compared to the largest EU economies.
Jobs in skilled fields such as law, medicine, and finance may face threats from AI, according to multiple economic forecasts. However, organizations like the Tony Blair Institute argue that losses in traditional employment could be offset by the emergence of new positions created by AI.
Kyle further announced readiness for a shift in discussions around AI and copyright following the cessation of opposition to the government’s proposed copyright revisions in the House of Lords. The controversy centered on allowing AI companies to use protected works without authorization in their development processes.
Kyle reflected on the process, saying, “I am approaching this with humility and a determination to refocus our efforts on securing fair compensation and opportunities for creatives in the digital era.”
