AI, digital literacy on the cards for Planning Ministry

THE use of artificial intelligence (AI), robust cybersecurity and enhanced digital literacy are on the agenda for the Planning and Development Ministry.

At the closing ceremony of the AMCHAM Tech Hub Islands Summit on July 2, Permanent Secretary Sanjay Singh said the ministry is looking to enhance processes like licence applications and systems that manage medical health records.

“We want to ensure AI is used to empower and not exploit,” he said.

“And technology is only as powerful as the people who use it, that is why we believe in investing heavily in digital literacy especially among the youth, small business owners and underserved communities.”

He said digital literacy efforts will also be seen on a national level.

“This will be accomplished through the training and re-training of civil servants, educators and professionals to lead the technical driven future. By upscaling initiative to foster public-private academic partnership we will be fostering a culture of continuous learning.”

Alongside these initiatives, implementing mechanisms to ensure cybersecurity is also part of the plan.

“We are focused on implementing a robust framework and investing in the talent of our digital infrastructure enforcing trust in our digital environment.”

Recognising the need for partnership across sectors to accomplish these goals, Singh also applauded CARIRI's Shaping The Future of Innovation Project which saw 24 awardees receiving US$50,000-$75,000 in grant funding for their innovative business ideas. The grant was funded by the European Union and Inter-American Development Bank.

“Many of these projects range from fashion to health to food security and creative endeavours lighting a brighter path to steer TT’s economy away from the over-dependence on oil and gas.”