Talks are advancing in Fiji to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) to boost productivity in both the education and business sectors. The Fiji National University (FNU) recently conducted a week-long workshop titled “AI for Business Productivity and Innovation.” The event aimed to equip attendees with essential skills and knowledge for effectively integrating AI into their operations.
Organizing committee member Ashwin Kumar highlighted the workshop’s goal to improve the efficiency of Fiji’s workforce and encourage better technological utilization across various industries. “We’re very excited to take AI to the next level,” Kumar remarked, emphasizing the need for Fijians to understand how to enhance productivity through ethical AI usage.
The workshop underscored the potential benefits of AI tools for educators. Kumar noted that these technologies can support teachers with resource management, grading, data analysis, and providing timely feedback to students. This initiative reflects a growing movement toward embedding AI into Fiji’s educational framework, preparing future generations for a job market increasingly focused on technology and digital literacy.
Francois Trachy, a resource person for FNU, acknowledged the unstoppable trend of digitalization and the necessity of adapting to these shifts. He observed the enthusiasm of young workshop participants eager to engage with AI, even in light of its current limitations in educational environments. Trachy stressed the importance of teaching responsible technology use.
This workshop represents FNU’s inaugural effort to promote AI literacy specifically for the Fijian workforce. It also highlights a larger trend in Fiji’s economy, where discussions have been ongoing regarding the need for investment in AI education and the requisite infrastructure. Past forums have echoed calls for regulations to oversee AI applications, ensuring the workforce is well-prepared for the transformative effects of these technologies.
Fiji’s commitment to educational reform, coupled with governmental backing for integrating new technologies in schools, indicates a positive outlook for future digital literacy. The collective efforts of educational institutions, government agencies, and organizations like FNU reflect a readiness to embrace AI as a crucial element of Fiji’s economic and educational future, ultimately fostering an environment geared towards development and societal progress.