Global Leaders Debate AI’s Impact on Society and Economy

Hong Kong – At the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), 39 Young Global Leaders (YGLs) from 22 countries convened for an educational module to discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future. This gathering, part of the World Economic Forum’s initiative, focused on the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

According to World Economic Forum, this inaugural AI Education Module aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI’s potential impact. It featured an immersive week-long program where YGLs engaged in discussions on diverse AI-related topics such as economics, regulations, and its applications in various fields like music and visual arts. The event also facilitated cultural exchange and provided a platform for leaders from different backgrounds to share their insights on AI’s transformative power.

Claire Tsui, Managing Director at Credit Suisse Hong Kong, emphasized the critical role of experts in guiding AI’s development towards beneficial outcomes. She highlighted the module’s role in broadening YGLs’ understanding of AI and its implications for society.

Kieron Boyle, CEO of the Impact Investing Institute, pointed out the unprecedented pace of change brought by AI. He discussed AI’s potential in impact investing and the need for innovative solutions to address near-term challenges, especially in job displacement.

Geoffrey See, CEO of Poko, shared his long-standing optimism about AI’s benefits, gained from over a decade of experience in the field. The module offered him fresh perspectives on AI, underscoring the importance of addressing public concerns and implementation challenges in non-tech enterprises.

Shani Senbetta, Founder of Kidame Mart, highlighted the digital divide’s implications, especially in regions like Africa, where access to AI tools is limited. She stressed the importance of bridging this gap to prevent further inequalities.

This event underscored the need for global leaders to collaboratively navigate the complex landscape of AI, balancing its potential benefits with the risks it poses to society.