Education is no longer the equalizer

This week the forum of CONALPE, the National Economic Planning Council, was held in Bogotá to mark its 50 years of existence. The central theme of the event was the relationship between economics, artificial intelligence, and the challenges for humanity.

Artificial intelligence is the most disruptive and promising technology of the 21st century. Its application in all productive, social, military and cultural sectors can produce great benefits, but also risks and ethical dilemmas. Therefore, it is essential that economists, politicians, businessmen and society in general reflect on the impact and potential of this instrument, and that appropriate regulatory and governance frameworks are established.

The CONALPE forum was an opportunity to listen to national and international experts about trends, success stories and challenges of artificial intelligence in the economy. Topics such as digital transformation, innovation, competitiveness, employment, education, inclusion, sustainability and ethics were addressed. Examples were presented of how artificial intelligence can improve productivity, efficiency, quality and personalize goods and services, as well as facilitate decision-making based on data and evidence.

However, it was also recognized that artificial intelligence poses important challenges, such as the possibility of deepening the digital divide, destroying jobs, inequality, privacy, security and responsibility. They warned that artificial intelligence is not a magic solution, but a tool that must be used with judgment and care, and that requires strategic vision, continuous investment, continuous training and citizen participation.

In order for a country like Colombia to be able to take advantage of technology and artificial intelligence to build equal opportunities and not deepen inequalities, it is necessary to strengthen the educational system and promote the development of skills in mathematics, statistics and computer science. “Education is no longer the equalizer,” said Sergio Clavijo, former director of ANIF. A university degree, a master’s degree or even a doctorate will no longer be a sufficient source of opportunities in the world of AI. These skills are essential to train the citizens of the future, who can actively participate in the digital society and produce innovative and relevant solutions to local and global problems. In the same way, universal and fair access to digital infrastructures and services must be guaranteed, as well as promoting a culture of ethical and responsible use of information and technology. In this way, the potential of artificial intelligence can be harnessed to improve the quality of life, social inclusion, democracy and peace.

In conclusion, the CONALPE forum was a valuable space for a necessary meeting and dialogue between the economy and artificial intelligence. The challenges are huge for humanity and for emerging countries like Colombia. It is a priority that all affected sectors open these types of spaces and that they translate into concrete actions that take advantage of the potential of artificial intelligence for collective well-being.