Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world at breakneck speed. Obviously, its arrival took the world by surprise, as AI tools have been created that are improving and becoming more accurate with every second.

For a precarious labor market, such as Ecuador’s, this technology might seem threatening, and a simplistic or populist response might be to ban or drastically limit its use. If we take such a position, we would make a big mistake. Just as there are risks, there are tremendous opportunities in this new era.

Artificial intelligence, the end of humanity?

Artificial intelligence in education

Some risks of adopting this technology are job displacement and skills shortages. Artificial intelligence can result in job losses, especially in sectors with routine and predictable tasks, and the jobs created around it will require a very specific set of technical skills. Those who do not have access to the necessary training to acquire these skills would be left behind.

Now speaking of opportunities, AI can increase efficiency and productivity in many areas of work. Automating repetitive tasks will free up workers to focus on more complex, human-oriented tasks. In addition, artificial intelligence can create new jobs, especially in areas such as data science, machine learning and software development. Training in these disciplines can open up a wide range of career opportunities.

In order to face this digital evolution, it is crucial that we understand that the wealth of a nation does not lie in the tools at its disposal, in commodities such as oil or gold, it does not end in artificial intelligence.

The wealth of a nation lies in the ability of its inhabitants to create value and know how to use their environment. The wealth of a nation is in its people.

Educational policies and artificial intelligence

Credit history and artificial intelligence

Unfortunately, Ecuador has become a country that stifles those who want to take advantage of its capacity. Bureaucracy and its Kafkaesque metaverse, along with insecurity, physical and legal, stagnated investments, businesses and people. Our country has become the perfect environment to remain in a state of alertness where instability inhibits the development of creativity, adaptability and freedom.

Fear of artificial intelligence could paralyze us and cause us to miss an opportunity to increase productivity and create quality work. So it’s time to focus on the state purpose and prepare. We must now move towards an education that mainly nurtures problem solving skills and creativity, have more flexible labor legislation and promote a land of freedom environment.

Artificial intelligence is here to stay and its impact on the labor market will be significant. Ecuador can turn this challenge into an opportunity, preparing its citizens for the future and ensuring sustainable economic growth. Artificial intelligence can be a driver of change, but it is critical that we cultivate an environment of freedom in which our nation’s true wealth can flourish. (OR)