The Singapore Future AI Summit 2025 continued with an engaging second session, Policy Talk: Enabling an AI-Ready Workforce for Inclusive Growth, presented by Rafael T. Community Manager for the Community of Practice on AI at UN ESCAP. This session focused on how science, technology, and innovation policy can support the development of an AI-ready workforce to drive inclusive growth in the Asia Pacific region, with particular attention to Cambodia.
Rafael T. introduced the concept of a community of practice on AI, an initiative that fosters inclusive AI research and policy capacity. In collaboration with the Cambodian Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, this community explores how AI can contribute to sustainable development in emerging economies. The session emphasized that AI is not solely for developed nations and must be adapted to local contexts, cultural values, and national priorities.
Delegates learned about the practical steps needed to translate ideas into tangible solutions
Delegates learned about the practical steps needed to translate ideas into tangible solutions, with innovation defined as turning concepts into implementable and market-ready outcomes. Rafael highlighted the key enablers of AI innovation, including quality and diverse data, robust infrastructure, and technical expertise. The government plays a crucial role in enabling AI through policies, research and development investment, and education and capacity-building initiatives.
The session also addressed the challenges developing countries face in adopting AI, such as limited resources, low human capital, and fragmented innovation ecosystems. Rafael emphasized the need for inclusive policies that consider underrepresented groups, promote equitable participation in innovation, and ensure that the benefits of AI reach vulnerable populations.
Practical insights from thematic webinars and stakeholder engagement were shared, illustrating how governments, academia, and communities can collaboratively explore AI’s potential. Sector-specific training, trust-building, and multi-stakeholder partnerships were highlighted as essential components for cultivating an AI-ready workforce that supports inclusive growth.
The session concluded with a call for continuous effort in workforce development, encouraging dialogue and collaboration to ensure AI adoption is both ethical and equitable. Delegates left with a renewed understanding of the importance of context-sensitive, inclusive strategies for AI innovation and capacity building.
The Singapore Future AI Summit 2025, presented by INSIP Indonesia and organized by SecreativeKita is more than just an event, it’s a platform where knowledge, collaboration, and innovation converge to shape the future of Artificial Intelligence.
If you missed the first Singapore Future AI Summit? Sign up our newsletter! www.sfais.org
#SingaporeFutureAISummit #AI #InclusiveGrowth #AIWorkforce #ScienceTechnologyPolicy #SoutheastAsia #InnovationPolicy #EthicalAI #CapacityBuilding #SFAIS2025
