Artificial intelligence programme launched to upskill Isle of Man's population

It's hoped the initiatives will assist in tackling some of the issues faced as a result of a skills shortage

A new artificial intelligence programme is being launched which hopes to boost productivity and skills across the Isle of Man.

Digital Isle of Man is rolling out its 'Activate AI' initiative in three stages, with the first focusing on education, the second to establish the Island's position globally, and the third to accelerate.

A new platform is expected to go live towards the end of this month (August), offering 200-hours of free training for businesses and individuals.

The initiative aims to harness AI's potential, and contribute to a projected 10 percent increase in GDP by 2030.

Director of the Isle of Man's Office of Cyber Security and Information Assurance Mike Haywood believes there are 'strong examples' of where AI is becoming a force for good, as Manx Radio's Christian Jones reports:

Artificial intelligence can be a scary prospect for some who have concerns about how it'll likely affect the workforce and their livelihoods.

It's hoped if businesses embrace the 'rapidly' evolving technology, it may assist in tackling some of the issues being faced as a result of low unemployment rates and a skills shortage.

Conversations have taken place between AI Singapore, Sweden and Australia as part of efforts to gain a better understanding of how AI is affecting their workforces while building this programme.

Digital Isle of Man's Chief Executive Lyle Wraxall and Board Member Jason Bissell discussed how AI could shake up the labour market:

A series of roadshows are expected to take place at various locations across the Island which aim to educate the public and businesses about AI and 'offer insights on how to leverage AI for growth and upskilling'.

All of the events run between 6pm and 7pm and are free to attend and open to members of the public.

• Monday 12 August: Ramsey Town Hall,
• Tuesday 13 August: Villa Marina Colonnade Suite, Douglas,
• Wednesday 14 August: Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin,
• Thursday 15 August: House of Manannan, Peel.

Mr Bissell explains what residents could expect by attending one of the daily events:

Local businesses will have the chance to work directly with other organisations that actively use artificial intelligence as part of their day-to-day operations and have significant experience in the field.

These will be called 'Activation Partners', and will offer free support in using AI to solve problems and implement business solutions.

Sign ups for this scheme will open in due course following the appointment of the Activation Partners, but those interested are being asked to sign up to Digital Isle of Man's newsletter or alternatively via its website.

As many as 200-hours of free training modules will be made available in late-August which is understood to cover a range of abilities from beginners to seasoned AI-users who have some experience already.

Mr Wraxall and Mr Bissell explain:

Digital Isle of Man is stressing it doesn't have all the answers, but is hoping the programme will facilitate the wider conversations and enable businesses and individuals to gain a better understanding of artificial intelligence.