Policy Roundtable on Skills, AI, and the Future of Work: Transforming Labor Markets in the Generative AI Era ????

As we conclude the year with our final newsletter, let’s reflect on an insightful and impactful event held at the True Digital Park (East) Auditorium last Tuesday. The Policy Roundtable on Skills, AI, and the Future of Work explored how generative AI is transforming the global labor market, with an emphasis on Thailand’s unique opportunities and challenges. The event brought together leading experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of AI integration, workforce development, and policy-making.

AI and Skills Mobility: Highlights from Prof. Ramayya Krishnan’s Keynote

The roundtable opened with a compelling keynote by Prof. Ramayya Krishnan, a globally recognized authority in AI and digital transformation. As the Dean of Heinz College at Carnegie Mellon University and Chair of the AI Futures Subcommittee for the US National AI Advisory, Prof. Ramayya shared invaluable insights into how AI is shaping workforce mobility and skill transformation.

His presentation covered two crucial themes: “Linking Skills to Mobility” and “Generative AI, Adoption, and the Structure of Tasks.” Prof. Ramayya introduced the concept of AI exposure scores, a metric used to assess the risk of job automation, and highlighted the growing need for reskilling and upskilling in high-risk occupations. He discussed real-world applications of generative AI in agriculture, where multi-modal models are used for anomaly detection, and in supply chain management, where AI agents streamline operations. While these innovations promise increased productivity, he also emphasized the accompanying challenges, such as intellectual property concerns, ethical dilemmas, and job displacement risks.

Prof. Ramayya proposed creating AI Extension Centers to democratize access to AI knowledge and tools across industries, ensuring equitable workforce development. He underscored the importance of data-driven approaches to identify skill gaps and provide actionable solutions, urging policymakers to balance innovation with regulation for sustainable AI growth. This comprehensive approach positions Thailand and other emerging markets to thrive in the age of AI.

Bridging AI and Workforce Development: Insights from Thai Leaders and US Expertise

The panel discussion featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Atip Asvanund, Executive Manager at the Digital Council of Thailand (DCT); Dr. Veera Veerakool, Vice Chair of the DCT; Dr. Akkarit Sangpetch, Director of the AI Engineering Institute at CMKL University; Dr. Tiranee Achalakul, Director of the Government Big Data Institute (BDI); and Miss Pornbavee Maunreel, Thailand’s first young NASA Artemis Program Ambassador and a member of DCT's working group for Women & Children in the Digital Age. Together, they addressed Thailand’s approach to AI adoption, highlighting its challenges and opportunities.

The discussion emphasized the importance of developing AI models tailored to Thailand’s unique cultural and linguistic contexts. Panelists proposed a national AI infrastructure project, Thai-ALM, which would create open-source resources for Thai-language applications. Collaboration between public, private, and academic sectors was identified as crucial, with micro-credential programs suggested to upskill and reskill the workforce effectively.

Panelists also stressed the ethical considerations of AI adoption, such as addressing job displacement and ensuring energy sustainability. A standout recommendation was the development of a Southeast Asia-specific language model, which could promote cross-border innovation while preserving cultural identity. Through these collaborative efforts, Thailand is poised to become a leader in regional AI development, balancing technological advancement with societal and cultural priorities.

Wrapping Up 2024: A Year of Transformation

This Policy Roundtable served as a poignant reminder of the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. It reaffirmed the need for a balanced, human-centric approach to AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of skill development, ethical governance, and inclusive technological growth.

As we close 2024, we thank you for being a part of our journey in exploring the intersections of technology, innovation, and societal progress. Your support inspires us to continue delivering valuable insights and actionable strategies.

What’s Next in 2025?

Next year, we will delve deeper into emerging trends such as Green Technology, AI in finance, and the latest advancements across industries. Stay connected for weekly updates, thought leadership, and industry insights.

Let’s shape the future of technology together. See you in 2025! ??