Jobs are changing, new opportunities are emerging, and work is being redefined, while skills are changing thanks to artificial intelligence. It no longer just generates information but is involved in acting, creating content and showing rapid global growth. These were the sentiments of AI strategist Chandan Chauhan, who gave a public lecture in the capital on AI's benefits to youth and business owners.
Artificial intelligence is moving from software towards increased focus on robotics.
This means robots are being primed to reason and develop natural language and speech control.
Robots in other countries are working alongside humans, and this reality will soon hit Namibians.
The Economic Association of Namibia held a public lecture exploring how artificial intelligence can serve as a strategic tool to address some of the country's pressing economic and social issues.
Strategist Chandan Chauhan said, "Technology will evolve; it will be getting better. Please do not take it for granted. The question is how we evolve. Out here are some examples of human collaborations with robots that exist, especially in the manufacturing industry and other industries such as the mining industry and agriculture industry as well. Because you know the robots can do the tasks that humans don't want to do or the tasks that are very dangerous to humans."
Chauhan highlighted that although the technology can be scary for humans, AI robotics, cars, and robots are safer and more efficient.
"I took one or two rides in them, and after that I would not take an Uber or a human-powered car or a human driver ever again. Because these cars are way smarter and safer than a human driver. And they follow the rules of the roads that humans may or may not."
He further highlighted that Namibians should be keen to tap into and unlock a new emerging economy.
However, the country will need to transform AI in governance, establish regulation policies and audits, build AI infrastructure, and enhance AI talent by incorporating training at universities or tertiary levels.
"So, the great thing is you guys have a very stable political environment. That is amazing, and that is needed to set up AI governance. So now your government should, or I am sure they are already working on creating the governance. Like, what should the security look like? What kind of security should be in place, and what kind of rules and regulations should be there?"