Sunday, August 25, 2024

Driving the Future of Work in Mexico through Artificial Intelligence: My Experience with the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI)

As an expert selected by the Mexican federal government to be part of the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI), I have had the honor of contributing to the working group on "AI for the Future of Work." My participation in this group has been an enriching and transformative experience, especially in the context of how artificial intelligence (AI) can and should positively impact the labor market in Mexico.

During my time with GPAI, I led several key initiatives that emphasize the importance of integrating AI into the workplace. One of the most notable was securing €20,000 to fund internships focused on creating AI for workers, specifically for Mexican students. These internships not only provide development opportunities for our youth but also foster the creation of technology that can improve working conditions in our country.

In these internships, we taught students the importance of developing human-centered artificial intelligence, an approach that prioritizes the well-being and needs of people in the design and implementation of technologies. Students learned to apply these principles while working on concrete projects, such as developing intelligent assistants for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These assistants were specifically designed to facilitate passport processing, improving the efficiency and accessibility of these services for Mexican citizens.

Additionally, in collaboration with INFOTEC, several UNAM students were hired as interns to implement artificial intelligence solutions in various government areas. This experience was crucial for students to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting and contribute directly to the modernization of the public sector. Collaborations between government and academia, like this one, are essential for integrating cutting-edge technologies and ensuring that Mexico remains at the forefront of AI use to improve public services.

Another significant contribution was leading the development of a new AI aimed at supporting both workers and the government. This project, developed by talented UNAM students, not only demonstrates the capabilities of our youth but also positions Mexico as a leader in the creation of labor-inclusive technology.

My work with GPAI has also allowed me to lead global studies on the impact of AI in the workplace, publishing scientific articles that have contributed to the international discussion on this crucial topic. Additionally, I have had the privilege of advising senators from the United States and Mexico on how AI can transform work, ensuring that informed decisions are made to benefit workers.

Recommendations for the Mexican Federal Government

Throughout this experience, I have developed some recommendations that I consider essential for Mexico to stay at the forefront of AI integration in the workplace:

  1. Creation of International Training Programs: It is essential that Mexico invests in training our citizens in the latest trends and AI technologies at a global level. This will not only improve our internal capabilities but also strengthen our position on the international stage.
  2. Internships in AI + GovTech: Propose the creation of internship programs that combine AI with GovTech, training future leaders at the intersection of technology and governance. This will allow for a more efficient and modern public administration.
  3. Strengthening the Support Network for Mexicans Abroad: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should promote scientific and AI connections between Mexican and international universities. These collaborations will not only facilitate the exchange of knowledge but also help our nationals abroad access strong support networks and advanced technological resources.
  4. Promotion of Government-Academia Collaborations: It is crucial to strengthen collaborations between the government and academia to create a robust ecosystem that drives the development of new artificial intelligence technologies in Mexico. These alliances will allow young talent to integrate into projects that modernize and improve public administration, ensuring that technological innovations benefit society as a whole.

My participation in GPAI has not only been an honor but also an opportunity to positively influence the future of work in Mexico. Through these recommendations, I trust that our country can continue moving towards a future where AI is a tool for growth and the well-being of all Mexicans.

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