As AI continues to revolutionize industries globally several Caribbean nations, like Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana, and the Dominican Republic, have recognized the importance of structured AI adoption. Both private and public sector have started developing comprehensive national AI strategies that include clear frameworks, ethical guidelines, and governance structures.
Guyana has already implemented key initiatives, which include implementing AI in public services to improve efficiency; integrating AI into the education system with partnerships like training 150,000 children in coding, utilizing AI in healthcare to enhance services, leveraging AI for increased agricultural productivity, and enhancing infrastructure projects, including housing, through AI-driven solutions. It’s safe to say that our fast growing Caribbean neighbour is setting a great example for all nations.
Education & Workforce Development Strategies
A key element of AI readiness is a skilled workforce. Investing in education and training programs is essential to develop expertise in AI and related fields. Caribbean universities, technical institutes, and online platforms have begun offering specialized courses and workshops to equip individuals with the skills needed to drive AI innovation.
For example, right here in Trinidad and Tobago, the University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine – offers a Master of Science in Data Science, which includes AI components. SBCS Global Learning Institute also offers a course “AI and Machine Learning for Business Professionals and others are following suit.
Fostering Public-Private Partnerships
Collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital for advancing AI in the Caribbean. Public-private partnerships facilitate resource sharing, funding opportunities, and knowledge exchange. Tech companies, local startups, and academic institutions are joining forces to conduct AI research and development, driving innovation and economic growth in the region.
The University of the West Indies (UWI) has established a new Research Cluster on Generative AI for Good, which is an initiative that aims to leverage generative AI technology to address social challenges and promote positive social impact.
Regulatory Frameworks and Ethical Considerations
As AI technologies evolve, addressing their ethical, legal, and social implications becomes paramount. Caribbean governments are working to establish robust regulatory frameworks that ensure responsible AI usage while protecting citizens’ rights. As a body, CARICOM (Caribbean Community) is engaging in discussions with the UNDP to develop an AI regulatory framework to address ethical issues, protect creative industries, and promote workforce upskilling.
Trinidad and Tobago is actively collaborating with international organizations, including participating in regional cooperation mechanisms such as the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU). The country also engages in international forums like the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the Global Digital Compact initiative.
Guyana is actively developing national AI strategies and governance frameworks to harness artificial intelligence for social and economic development.
Challenges and Opportunities
While progress is being made, the Caribbean still faces challenges on its journey to AI readiness as in some cases countries are still behind the standard digital space. For example infrastructure issues in rural communities delay access to internet connections and many countries lack the funding to get this service throughout all parts.
Given their high growth rate, Guyana is has been experiencing a shortage of skilled workers as reported a year ago which would still be case. The country would still be facing a significant skills gap, particularly in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and, in this case, technology. However, there has been engagement with agencies, companies, and others to find solutions and to build a framework to fill the labour gap. Source: Starbroek News
Opportunities do exist in the area of data centers as it was reported in October 2024 that NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang says a trillion dollars is being spent on data centers to enable the next, biggest wave of AI to revolutionize business productivity (Source: CNBC). Trinidad & Tobago company Informatics has already designed and built one of the largest, state-of-the-art data centers in the Caribbean and Latin America, and there are many other notable data centers in the country, for example the Air Link Data Center in Princes Town, South Trinidad. So we are poised to take advantage of the AI wave.
Jamaica had also partnered with the European Union (EU) in 2021-2027 to support its goal of a digital economy and society, leading to the development of data centers.
Conclusion
The Caribbean is making commendable strides toward AI readiness although faced with some challenges but by focusing on national strategies, technological infrastructure, education, public-private partnerships and public engagement, the region can unlock the transformative potential of AI. The journey may be complex, but with continued commitment and collaboration, the Caribbean is well-positioned to embrace the future of AI and achieve sustainable development.