President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa emphasized AI’s potential for sustainable development as a priority for the country’s G20 presidency. He announced the National AI Skilling Initiative, highlighted the development of a cybersecurity bill, and praised Microsoft’s investment in training South Africans in AI and cybersecurity. Ramaphosa reaffirmed a commitment to technological advancement for economic growth and job creation.
In his address at the Microsoft South Africa Investment Announcement, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) for sustainable development is a key priority during South Africa’s G20 presidency. He expressed enthusiasm for the launch of the National AI Skilling Initiative aimed at training public servants in AI.
President Ramaphosa reported that South Africa is in the process of finalizing a cybersecurity bill designed to bolster the security of online government services and protect citizens’ digital transactions. Additionally, a National AI Policy is under development to establish South Africa as a leader in AI innovation and to address the broader implications of AI.
Praising Microsoft’s commitment to South Africa, he noted, “Microsoft’s plans to train 1 million South Africans in AI skills, machine learning and cybersecurity by 2026 is immensely encouraging.” He characterized Microsoft’s long-standing presence in South Africa, established since 1992, as a significant endorsement of the country’s economy.
Highlighting AI’s transformative power, President Ramaphosa underscored the necessity for skilled talent and noted AI’s potential role in job creation. He expressed hopes that South Africa’s G20 presidency would yield meaningful outcomes that enhance the global digital economy and create equitable opportunities in AI for all nations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa articulated the significance of artificial intelligence in driving sustainable development as a prominent focus of South Africa’s G20 presidency. The initiatives for public servant training, along with new cybersecurity measures and the ambition to lead in AI innovation, reflect a strong commitment to leveraging technology to foster economic growth and job creation. Ramaphosa’s encouragement of global collaboration in digital advancements underscores the belief that equitable AI opportunities can benefit all countries.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
