Entrepreneurs seek ethical AI use

Local innovators highlight need for regulations to harness AI’s potential safely

KARACHI:

Stringent regulatory policies and rules against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) could ensure a responsible and ethical technology culture among Pakistani youths, say AI coaches and entrepreneurs. They add that local bright youth could fully tap into AI to earn remotely with hands-on projects. They stress that it is high time to establish such rules as AI rapidly penetrates all fields and sectors.

Sharing their views with The Express Tribune, they state that preventing youths from misusing AI is crucial and should be approached through three facets. Firstly, comprehensive educational programmes should raise awareness about ethical implications and consequences, aiming to prevent youths from relying on AI technologies like ChatGPT for ready-made answers to assignment questions. Secondly, fostering an environment that values originality and critical thinking is essential, promoting honest academic practices. Lastly, it is advisable to implement advanced plagiarism detection and proctoring tools, leveraging technology to maintain authenticity.

“It is vital to address concerns around AI-generated fake content. I advocate for a regulatory approach that fosters innovation while managing risks. We propose measures such as mandatory disclosure, ethical guidelines, and user awareness initiatives, along with collaboration with the tech industry. Striking a balance is crucial to prevent harm without hindering AI’s positive impact in sectors like education and healthcare. It’s imperative to involve diverse stakeholders in a consultative process to tailor regulations effectively for Pakistan’s unique landscape, promoting responsible AI practices and transparency,” said Entrepreneur and technology expert Salman Lakhani, who is also the founder and CEO of Cubix.

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Lakhani highlights that local bright youth can fully tap into AI to earn remotely with hands-on projects. In marketing, AI tools can be used to dig into data and craft personalised campaigns that truly hit the mark. When it comes to graphic design, one can experiment with AI-driven graphic design platforms. For tech enthusiasts, diving into the world of AI-based automation and data processing in software development can be highly rewarding. He highlighted the importance of young Pakistani talent enrolling in online courses, engaging actively in AI communities, and contributing to real-world projects. By developing a versatile skill set, staying updated on industry trends, and offering AI-based solutions on freelancing platforms, recent graduates can access numerous remote opportunities, allowing them to thrive in Pakistan’s dynamic digital landscape.

“Discouraging the misuse of AI among youths calls for a multifaceted approach, including stressing ethical education, promoting digital literacy, and implementing technological safeguards. By adopting these strategies, educators, policymakers, and communities can work together to ensure that AI technologies like ChatGPT are leveraged to enhance learning and creativity among youths, rather than diminish the value of authentic academic endeavour,” said SI Global Solutions CEO Noman Said.

Said highlighted that fresh graduates can effectively learn and polish their AI skills from home by leveraging a wealth of online resources and self-directed learning strategies. These include online courses and tutorials, open-source projects, competitive programming, online forums and communities, research papers and blogs, personal projects, webinars and workshops, YouTube channels, podcasts, and audiobooks. By combining these resources with a disciplined, self-motivated learning approach, fresh graduates can significantly enhance their AI skills from home, he said, adding that it is important to set clear learning goals, maintain a regular study schedule, and actively seek feedback and collaboration opportunities to maximise the learning experience.

Meanwhile, other IT and AI trainers underscore the need for stringent regulatory oversight to mitigate the proliferation of counterfeit multimedia content in Pakistan’s burgeoning IT industry. As AI technologies evolve, they become increasingly adept at generating deceptive videos, audios, and texts, posing significant challenges to information integrity and national security. They stress that implementing such measures is imperative to ensuring the responsible utilisation of AI, protecting citizens from digital disinformation, and securing the integrity of the digital landscape in Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2024.

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