Google Takes Global Initiative to Educate Workforce and Policymakers on AI
Alphabet's Google is intensifying efforts to influence public opinion and policies regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in anticipation of forthcoming global AI regulations. Kent Walker, Alphabet's president of global affairs, emphasised the importance of educating individuals and governments on AI to enhance policy-making and create new opportunities.
Facing competition from tech giants like Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Meta, Google is navigating increased regulatory scrutiny, particularly in its advertising and search sectors. In response, Google has proposed selling a portion of its ad tech business in the EU and is contending with potential regulatory actions in the US.
Governments worldwide are crafting new regulations to address AI-related concerns such as copyright and privacy. The EU's AI Act, designed to evaluate risks and mandate disclosures from general-purpose AI systems, has drawn resistance from major tech companies facing substantial fines.
In a federal case where Google's search business was deemed a monopoly, the Department of Justice has sought to limit Google's advancements in AI. Google executives view an opportunity to shape the narrative around AI, addressing fears of widespread job displacement.
CEO Sundar Pichai announced a $120 million investment fund for AI education programmes, with executives like Walker and Ruth Porat engaging with governments globally to propose policy recommendations. Google's 'Grow with Google' initiative offers online and in-person training tools to enhance workers' skills in technical fields like data analysis and IT support.
Google aims to expand public-private partnerships, such as the 'Skilled Trades and Readiness' programme, collaborating with community colleges to train workers for roles in constructing data centres. The company plans to integrate AI education into these initiatives to prepare individuals for evolving job requirements.
Looking ahead, Google anticipates AI integration into most jobs to some extent, with only a small fraction of roles being entirely displaced by AI. Economist David Autor, engaged by Google to study AI's impact on the workforce, suggests leveraging AI for immersive training programmes to facilitate adult retraining effectively.
Google prioritises AI education to influence policy-making and address job displacement fears.
The company engages in public-private partnerships to train workers for evolving technical roles.
Economist David Autor advocates for immersive AI-based training programmes to enhance adult retraining.
Source: REUTERS