Tiwalade Aderoju, FCIArb
Olympus Solicitors and Advocates
Lagos, Nigeria
Abstract:
This article analyses the impact of Artificial Intelligence on employment, exploring job creation, displacement, and the need for upskilling initiatives.
It emphasizes the importance of proactiveness in dealing with the ethical issues associated with the prevalence of AI to ensure an equitable transition to an AI-driven economy.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment:
Exploring the Present and Anticipating the Future.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the whole world buzzing! Everyone is talking about AI, and its disruption of the ecosystem as we used to know it. It can be argued that Artificial intelligence is one of the most iconic and disruptive
technological developments in the 21st century. Not only has AI revolutionised our lives, it has also revolutionised means of livelihood. Many pundits predict that AI may lead to massive loss of jobs, and a corresponding demand for a new set of skillsets.
This article examines the impact of AI on employment, including both its potential risks and opportunities. By understanding the implications of AI on the employment landscape, we can proactively prepare for the changes it brings, and make informed decisions on how to harness its power to create a prosperous and sustainable future.
What is AI?
Before delving into the conversation on how Artificial Intelligence impacts on the future of work, it is pertinent that we begin from the basics – What Exactly is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence, according to Merriam Websters, is defined as “a branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of intelligent behaviour in computers.” Britannica calls it “the ability of a digital computer or computer- controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.” Today, the term AI has become the overarching phrase for any technological
invention and/or program that performs tasks and solve problems that normally require human input and learning. However, we should be careful to draw a distinction between AI and algorithms. Computers are built to solve problems by the use of a “set of instructions” -called Algorithms. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, takes it a notch higher. It relates to the process of programming a computer to make decisions by itself through the use of machine learning. The difference in simple terms is that AI is a computer system that can change outputs based on new inputs, make decisions, and perform tasks that require autonomous intelligence. Now that we understand what AI means, let us take a look at how it directly impacts on employment today.
The Current Impact of AI on Employment One of the primary concerns of AI’s impact on employment is the potential
for automation and job displacement. AI-powered machines and algorithms are capable of performing repetitive and routine tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans. As a result, jobs in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, book keeping
and customer services are quickly being overtaken by AI. The resultant effect is that many jobs would become obsolete and would lead to mass job losses. Many lesser skilled workers are already being affected by AI: forinstance, a new report from Gartner 1 Predicts that AI will eliminate millions
———————————————
1 Gartner Inc. is an American technological research and consulting firm based in Stamford, Connecticut that conducts research on technology and shares this research both through private consulting as well as of jobs, and create over two million new jobs in 2025. Similarly, in an paper, 2 authored by Frey and Osborne, they predicted that AI would disrupt over 700 occupations. The paper identified an upward trend towards labour market polarization, “with growing employment in high-income cognitive jobs and low-income manual occupations.”
AI on Job Search
Not only has AI affected the jobs we do, but it has also affected job searches. Many job seekers are unable to secure interviews despite sending numerous applications. The reason being that most employers filter out resumes using AI and algorithms. According to Forbes , 3 AI plays a major role in the hiring process to the extent that over 75% of applications are filtered out by the Application Tracking Systems (ATS) before human recruiters can even get to interact with them. Previously, the task of filtering unqualified
applicants was solely a human task performed by hiring managers. According to data gathered from LinkedIn, recruiter/employers used to spend over 23hours going over CVs before selecting one successful hire. However, presently with the advent of ATS, more hiring managers are using AI to limit the number and the category of applications (resumes) they receive from job seekers. Apart from hiring managers, AI has also impacted on a job seekers’application process and style. An example is the Jobscan online resource
that utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning technology. It gives job seekers an analysis of how well their resume, and cover letter are tailored for a particular job; and how they can optimize their resumes to scale the automated application tracking system. Another tool job seekers can take advantage of is Jobseer, which uses AI and keywords contained in your CV to link you up with job listings on the internet that match your qualifications.
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
executive programs and conferences. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/en/doc/emerging- technologies-and-trends-impact-radar-excerpt Accessed 23 June 2023.
2 Frey C.B and Osborne M.A (2013), The future of employment: how susceptible are jobs to computerization? Machines and employment workshop, Oxford University, Oxford.
3 Ashley Stahl (2021) How AI Will Impact The Future of Work and Life Forbes Magazine. Available at:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2021/03/10/how-ai-will-impact-the-future-of-work-and-life/?sh=1030da9b79a3. Accessed on: 23 June 2023. It is therefore apparent that AI is here to stay. However, it is not a tale of gloom and doom for the human race. While AI is certain to lead to job losses in certain areas, it will often shift the nature of work and open up new opportunities. An MIT publication titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work” posits that we are still many decades away from computers which
will possess enough human-level intelligence to completely take over our jobs. Instead, the MIT publication predicts a future where “the most promising uses of AI will not involve computer replacing people, but rather, people and computers working together – as ‘super minds’ – to do both cognitive and physical tasks…” 4
Anticipating the Future Impact of AI on Employment
AI offers significant advantages for serving as a complement rather than a substitute for human capabilities. By harnessing the power derived from various forms of advanced technology such as machine learning algorithms, people can more effectively augment their own skill sets along with theirdecision-making abilities. Collaborative efforts between humans and AIn software systems, designed for high-speed performance, yield intuitive insights that lead to strategically sound choices. 5 This collaboration enables quick decision-making in challenging situations, combining the strengths of human intuition and AI's computational speed. This alliance of human and machine (AI) generates a compelling synergy that drives growth with measurably improved efficiency and greatly enhanced productivity.
Humans and AI partnerships have initiated transformational changes in several sectors over the centuries. For instance, in the healthcare sector, AI-driven systems play a crucial role as they help medical experts diagnose ailments, scrutinize medical images, and detect patterns within patient data. By imparting insights and recommendations based on meticulous research backed by data analysis, these tools augment patient outcomes significantly. Similarly, in finance, efficient risk assessment and fraud detection is enabled
———————————————–
4 Thomas M, Daniela R, Robert L (2020) Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work Massachusetts Institute of Technology Industrial Performance Centre. Available at: https://workofthefuture.mit.edu/research-post/artificial-intelligence-and-the-future-of-work/ Accessed on 23 June 2023
5 Malone, Thomas W. (2018) Super minds: The Surprising Power of People and Computers ThinkingTogether.” New York: Little, Brown and Company. through AI algorithms; that identify fraudulent patterns and identify potential risk areas while collaborating with human analysts.
New Job Opportunities: Most In-Demand Jobs
The best way not to be left behind is to adapt to the quickly evolving job market. To adapt, you may need to upskill and/or reskill in specific areas. As AI technology continues to gain ground, there becomes an increase for employers with AI, machine learning, programming, creative, and problem- solving skills. According to PayScale’s Data team, knowledge of high-demand technologies boosts compensation by 14% to 26%. Similar data by McKinsey & Company shows that technological advancement over the next decade will require 14% of employees globally to either have a career switch, or significantly change how they do their jobs. 6
Here are some of the most sort after skills in an AI dominated world:
1. Cybersecurity and Ethical Hackers:
In 2020, over 2,935 cyber security threats were reported making it the worst ever recorded. This has created a sweeping need for company executives to prioritize cyber security, thus creating a massive market demand for cybersecurity experts. The more advanced AI becomes, the higher the need to protect sensitive information and cyberattacks. Certifications and trainings in cloud security, azure security, cloud security architecture will become even more valuable in the nearest future.
2. Data Scientists and Data Analyst:
With the ever-increasing volume of data generated by businesses and individuals, the importance of data analysts and scientist gets more pronounced. Data scientists are needed to generate, analyse and interprete complex data sets to extract valuable insights; and help businesses and organizations make better decisions. The areas of specialization in this field
————————————————
Manyika, James, Susan Lund, Michael Chul, Jacques Bughin, Jonathan Woetzel, Parul Batra, Ryan Ko, and Saurabh Sanghvi, 2017. “Jobs Lost, Jobs Gained: what the Future of Work will Mean for Jobs, Skills, and Wages” McKinsey Global Institute. Available at: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future- ofwork/jobs-lost-jobs-gained-what-the-future-of-work-will-mean-for-jobs-skills-and-wages. include, data analysis, machine learning, mathematical/ statistical modelling, and more. 7
3. Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning Experts:
These are skills relating to the development and utilization of programs, tools, and solutions; powered by algorithms and other technologies aimed at automated response, and improvement based on previous uploaded data. These skills are projected to grow in demand by at least 71% over the next decade, so great is its growth potential that it has been labelled by the Burning Glass Institute as one of most disruptive skill in the technology industry that is already in demand and growing fast.
4. UI/UX Designers:
User experience and user interface designers will pay a huge role in the future, with more interaction between humans and machines. User interface and user experience designers create and design the interface that the human users interact with. Their skill in ensuring a seamless human-centred interaction exists between man and AI will be immensely invaluable.
5. Project Managers:
Anyone who is responsible for organising, planning and executing projects is known as the Project Manager. The Project manager leads and manages the project team. Effective risk management is a crucial element in project management, as it ensures the successful completion of a project. Identifying the potential risks at the early stages of the project cycle is essential. Regardless of the sector, from developing digital applications to constructing architectural edifices, all projects require the expertise of a project manager.
6. Human Resource Managers:
As AI technologies continues to advance and become more prevalent, HR managers serve as the bridge between technology and the human workforce. One of key and indispensable aspect of the HR manager’s role is in talent acquisition and management. The more AI integrated the society becomes, the higher the demand for experts in areas such as machine
R. Patrice К. (2020). INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON EMPLOYMENT ON THEEXAMPLE OF TRANSPORT INDUSTRY OF FRANCE. University Gazette https://doi.org/10.26425/1816-4277-2019-12-71-77
learning, data analysis, and programming. HR managers are responsible for identifying, attracting, assessing their skills, and aligning them with the organization’s strategic goals.
7. Healthcare Workers:
Although AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and streamline healthcare processes, the need for human expertise, compassion, and critical thinking will remain indispensable. AI tech will be used to assist healthcare workers in areas such as diagnosis, patient history assessment, pattern recognition, and personalized treatment plans. 8 However, healthcare
workers still play a crucial role due to their unique ability to build a relationship with patients, empathize, and to provide emotional support to patients and their families. It is also pertinent to note that, human touch, intuition, and the ability to navigate complex ethical dilemmas are qualities that are too human to be replicated by AI.
8. Educators:
While there has been a big buzz about EdTech in recent times, it is very unlikely that AI will overtake and replace the role of teachers. 9 While modern
Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIED) technologies has the potential to automate certain aspects of education, and provide personalized learning experiences; the importance of human educators in fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and creativity will remain essential. The role of educators extends far beyond delivering information. Human educators possess the ability to inspire, motivate, and build meaningful connection with students. They create safe and inclusive learning environments, promote collaborations, and facilitate discussion that foster deeper understanding. Educators also play a vital role in developing students’ social and emotional skills, promoting empathy, and ethical values.
Augmented Intelligence and Collaboration
Benke, K. K., & Benke, G. (2018). Artificial intelligence and big data in public health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(12), 2796.https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15122796
9 Watters A. (2021), Teaching machine, MIT Press, Cambridge, MA. Available on:https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262546065/teaching-machines/
Rather than replacing humans, AI has the potential to augment human capabilities and enhance collaboration between humans and machines. Augmented intelligence refers to the symbiotic relationship between humans and AI, where AI systems complement human intelligence, decision-making, and problem-solving. AI can assist workers by automating mundane and time-consuming tasks,
freeing up their time to focus on more strategic and value-added activities. For example, AI-powered chatbots can handle basic customer inquiries, allowing human customer service representatives to address more complex issues that require empathy and creativity. Additionally, AI can improve collaboration among workers by enabling efficient information sharing, knowledge management, and team coordination. Collaboration platforms powered by AI algorithms can facilitate communication, project management, and data-driven decision-making, leading to enhanced productivity and innovation.
Tiwalade Aderoju, FCIArb
Olympus Solicitors and Advocates
Lagos, Nigeria
Abstract:
This article analyses the impact of Artificial Intelligence on employment, exploring job creation, displacement, and the need for upskilling initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of proactiveness in dealing with the ethical issues associated with the prevalence of AI to ensure an equitable transition to an AI-driven economy.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment: Exploring the Present and Anticipating the Future.Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the whole world buzzing! Everyone is talking about AI, and its disruption of the ecosystem as we used to know it. It cabe argued that Artificial intelligence is one of the most iconic and disruptive technological developments in the 21st century. Not only has AI revolutionised our lives, it has also revolutionised means of livelihood. Many pundits predict that AI may lead to massive loss of jobs, and a corresponding demand for a new set of skillsets.
This article examines the impact of AI on employment, including both its potential risks and opportunities. By understanding the implications of AI on the employment landscape, we can proactively prepare for the changes it brings, and make informed decisions on how to harness its power to create a prosperous and sustainable future.
What is AI?
Before delving into the conversation on how Artificial Intelligence impacts on the future of work, it is pertinent that we begin from the basics – What Exactly is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence, according to Merriam Websters, is defined as “a branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of intelligent behaviour in computers.” Britannica calls it “the ability of a digital computer or computer- controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.” Today, the term AI has become the overarching phrase for any technological
invention and/or program that performs tasks and solve problems that normally require human input and learning. However, we should be careful to draw a distinction between AI and algorithms. Computers are built to solve problems by the use of a “set of instructions” -called Algorithms.Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, takes it a notch higher. It relates to the process of programming a computer to make decisions by itself through the use of machine learning. The difference in simple terms is that AI is a computer system that can change outputs based on new inputs, make decisions, and perform tasks that require autonomous intelligence. Now that we understand what AI means, let us take a look at how it directly impacts on employment today.
The Current Impact of AI on Employment One of the primary concerns of AI’s impact on employment is the potential
for automation and job displacement. AI-powered machines and algorithms are capable of performing repetitive and routine tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans. As a result, jobs in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, book keeping
and customer services are quickly being overtaken by AI. The resultant effect is that many jobs would become obsolete and would lead to mass job losses. Many lesser skilled workers are already being affected by AI: for instance, a new report from Gartner 1 Predicts that AI will eliminate millions
1 Gartner Inc. is an American technological research and consulting firm based in Stamford, Connecticut that conducts research on technology and shares this research both through private consulting as well as of jobs, and create over two million new jobs in 2025. Similarly, in an paper, 2 authored by Frey and Osborne, they predicted that AI would disrupt over 700 occupations. The paper identified an upward trend towards labour market polarization, “with growing employment in high-income cognitive jobs and low-income manual occupations.”
AI on Job Search
Not only has AI affected the jobs we do, but it has also affected job searches. Many job seekers are unable to secure interviews despite sending numerous applications. The reason being that most employers filter out resumes using AI and algorithms. According to Forbes , 3 AI plays a major role in the hiring process to the extent that over 75% of applications are filtered out by the Application Tracking Systems (ATS) before human recruiters can even get to interact with them. Previously, the task of filtering unqualified
applicants was solely a human task performed by hiring managers. According to data gathered from LinkedIn, recruiter/employers used to spend over 23hours going over CVs before selecting one successful hire. However, presently with the advent of ATS, more hiring managers are using AI to limit the number and the category of applications (resumes) they
receive from job seekers. Apart from hiring managers, AI has also impacted on a job seekers’ application process and style. An example is the Jobscan online resource that utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning technology. It gives job seekers an analysis of how well their resume, and cover letter are tailored for a particular job; and how they can optimize their resumes to
scale the automated application tracking system. Another tool job seekers can take advantage of is Jobseer, which uses AI and keywords contained in your CV to link you up with job listings on the internet that match your
qualifications.
———————————————————————————————————————————————–
executive programs and conferences. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/en/doc/emerging- technologies-and-trends-impact-radar-excerpt Accessed 23 June 2023.
2 Frey C.B and Osborne M.A (2013), The future of employment: how susceptible are jobs to computerization? Machines and employment workshop, Oxford University, Oxford.
3 Ashley Stahl (2021) How AI Will Impact The Future of Work and Life Forbes Magazine. Available at:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2021/03/10/how-ai-will-impact-the-future-of-work-and-life/?sh=1030da9b79a3. Accessed on: 23 June 2023.
It is therefore apparent that AI is here to stay. However, it is not a tale of gloom and doom for the human race. While AI is certain to lead to job losses in certain areas, it will often shift the nature of work and open up new opportunities. An MIT publication titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work” posits that we are still many decades away from computers which will possess enough human-level intelligence to completely take over our jobs. Instead, the MIT publication predicts a future where “the most
promising uses of AI will not involve computer replacing people, but rather, people and computers working together – as ‘super minds’ – to do both cognitive and physical tasks…
” 4
Anticipating the Future Impact of AI on Employment
AI offers significant advantages for serving as a complement rather than a substitute for human capabilities. By harnessing the power derived from various forms of advanced technology such as machine learning algorithms, people can more effectively augment their own skill sets along with their decision-making abilities. Collaborative efforts between humans and AI software systems, designed for high-speed performance, yield intuitive insights that lead to strategically sound choices.
5 This collaboration enables quick decision-making in challenging situations, combining the strengths of human intuition and AI's computational speed. This alliance of human and machine (AI) generates a compelling synergy that drives growth with
measurably improved efficiency and greatly enhanced productivity. Humans and AI partnerships have initiated transformational changes in several sectors over the centuries. For instance, in the healthcare sector, AI- driven systems play a crucial role as they help medical experts diagnose ailments, scrutinize medical images, and detect patterns within patient data. By imparting insights and recommendations based on meticulous research backed by data analysis, these tools augment patient outcomes significantly.
Similarly, in finance, efficient risk assessment and fraud detection is enabled
—————————————-
4 Thomas M, Daniela R, Robert L (2020) Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work Massachusetts Institute of Technology Industrial Performance Centre. Available at: https://workofthefuture.mit.edu/research-post/artificial-intelligence-and-the-future-of-work/ Accessed on 23 June 202
5 Malone, Thomas W. (2018) Super minds: The Surprising Power of People and Computers ThinkingTogether.” New York: Little, Brown and Company. through AI algorithms; that identify fraudulent patterns and identify potential risk areas while collaborating with human analysts.
New Job Opportunities: Most In-Demand Jobs The best way not to be left behind is to adapt to the quickly evolving job market. To adapt, you may need to upskill and/or reskill in specific areas. As AI technology continues to gain ground, there becomes an increase for employers with AI, machine learning, programming, creative, and problem- solving skills. According to PayScale’s Data team, knowledge of high-demand technologies boosts compensation by 14% to 26%. Similar data by McKinsey & Company
shows that technological advancement over the next decade will require 14% of employees globally to either have a career switch, or significantly change how they do their jobs. 6
Here are some of the most sort after skills in an AI dominated world:
1. Cybersecurity and Ethical Hackers: In 2020, over 2,935 cyber security threats were reported making it the worst ever recorded. This has created a sweeping need for company executives to prioritize cyber security, thus creating a massive marketdemand for cybersecurity experts. The more advanced AI becomes, the higher the need to protect sensitive information and cyberattacks.
Certifications and trainings in cloud security, azure security, cloud security architecture will become even more valuable in the nearest future.
2. Data Scientists and Data Analyst:
With the ever-increasing volume of data generated by businesses and individuals, the importance of data analysts and scientist gets more pronounced. Data scientists are needed to generate, analyse and interprete ofwork/jobs-lost-jobs-gained-what-the-future-of-work-will-mean-for-jobs-skills-and-wages.
include, data analysis, machine learning, mathematical/ statistical modelling,and more. 7
3. Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning Experts:
These are skills relating to the development and utilization of programs, tools, and solutions; powered by algorithms and other technologies aimed at automated response, and improvement based on previous uploaded data. These skills are projected to grow in demand by at least 71% over the next decade, so great is its growth potential that it has been labelled by the Burning Glass Institute as one of most disruptive skill in the technology industry that is already in demand and growing fast.
4. UI/UX Designers:
User experience and user interface designers will pay a huge role in the future, with more interaction between humans and machines. User interfaceand user experience designers create and design the interface that the human users interact with. Their skill in ensuring a seamless human-centred interaction exists between man and AI will be immensely invaluable.
5. Project Managers:
Anyone who is responsible for organising, planning and executing projects is known as the Project Manager. The Project manager leads and manages the project team. Effective risk management is a crucial element in project management, as it ensures the successful completion of a project.Identifying the potential risks at the early stages of the project cycle is essential. Regardless of the sector, from developing digital applications to constructing architectural edifices, all projects require the expertise of a
project manager.
6. Human Resource Managers:
As AI technologies continues to advance and become more prevalent, HR managers serve as the bridge between technology and the human workforce. One of key and indispensable aspect of the HR manager’s role is in talent acquisition and management. The more AI integrated the society becomes, the higher the demand for experts in areas such as machine
7 R. Patrice К. (2020). INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON EMPLOYMENT ON THEEXAMPLE OF TRANSPORT INDUSTRY OF FRANCE. University Gazettehttps://doi.org/10.26425/1816-4277-2019-12-71-77
learning, data analysis, and programming. HR managers are responsible for identifying, attracting, assessing their skills, and aligning them with the organization’s strategic goals.
7. Healthcare Workers:
Although AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and streamlinehealthcare processes, the need for human expertise, compassion, and critical thinking will remain indispensable. AI tech will be used to assist healthcare workers in areas such as diagnosis, patient history assessment, pattern recognition, and personalized treatment plans. 8 However, healthcareworkers still play a crucial role due to their unique ability to build a relationship with patients, empathize, and to provide emotional support topatients and their families. It is also pertinent to note that, human touch, intuition, and the ability to navigate complex ethical dilemmas are qualities that are too human to be replicated by AI.
8. Educators:
While there has been a big buzz about EdTech in recent times, it is very unlikely that AI will overtake and replace the role of teachers. 9 While modern
Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIED) technologies has the potential to automate certain aspects of education, and provide personalized learning experiences; the importance of human educators in fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and creativity will remain essential. The role of educators extends far beyond delivering information. Human educators possess the ability to inspire, motivate, and build meaningful connection with students. They create safe and inclusive learning environments, promote collaborations, and facilitate discussion that foster deeper understanding. Educators also play a vital role in developingstudents’ social and emotional skills, promoting empathy, and ethical values.
Augmented Intelligence and Collaboration
—————————————————–
8 Benke, K. K., & Benke, G. (2018). Artificial intelligence and big data in public health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(12), 2796. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15122796
9 Watters A. (2021), Teaching machine, MIT Press, Cambridge, MA. Available on: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262546065/teaching-machines/
Rather than replacing humans, AI has the potential to augment human capabilities and enhance collaboration between humans and machines. Augmented intelligence refers to the symbiotic relationship between humans and AI, where AI systems complement human intelligence, decision-making, and problem-solving. AI can assist workers by automating mundane and time-consuming tasks,
freeing up their time to focus on more strategic and value-added activities. For example, AI-powered chatbots can handle basic customer inquiries, allowing human customer service representatives to address more complexissues that require empathy and creativity. Additionally, AI can improve collaboration among workers by enabling efficient information sharing, knowledge management, and team coordination. Collaboration platforms powered by AI algorithms can facilitate communication, project management, and data-driven decision-making, leading to enhanced productivity and innovation.
Ethical Considerations and Human Supervision
While AI brings numerous benefits, it also raises ethical concerns, particularly in relation to employment. 10 One of the primary concerns is the potential for bias in AI systems. If AI algorithms are trained on biased or incomplete data, they may perpetuate existing biases and discrimination. For instance, a company, Hirevue, uses facial recognition AI to rate the confidence levels, IQ, ethnicity, gender, personality type, and even criminality of job seekers by rating their video images according to verbal
and non-verbal cues. This can have a negative impact on employment practices, such as biased hiring or discriminatory decision-making. Hiring systems are trained using data from top performers. If the data favours a particular sect based on
gender or race, then the system will generate recommendations in favour of that group in providing recommendations for hiring.
10 Alex Najibi (2020) Racial Discrimination in Facial Recognition Technology Harvard University’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences – Special Edition on Science Policy and Social Justice. Available at: https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2020/racial-discrimination-in-face-recognition-technology/ Accessed on: 26 June 2023.
To address these concerns, it is crucial to ensure human supervision and accountability in the development and deployment of AI systems. Humans should have oversight of AI algorithms to identify and mitigate biases. Additionally, ethical frameworks and regulations need to be in place to govern the use of AI and protect against potential harms to workers. Furthermore, it is pertinent to establish and foster informed public discussion around the design, development and deployment of AI systems. These
discussions ought to be led by the public sector and be open to all stakeholders to ensure a robust multivocality and communication. Public forum discussions are particularly crucial in the absence of municipal and international legal frameworks that specifically address AI. These discussions will serve as policy drivers, filling the gap and guiding decisions related to
artificial intelligence to preserve human rights, the climate and other social issues in the proliferation of AI. 1
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence has undoubtedly transformed the employment landscape. While there are valid concerns about job displacement, it is important to recognize the opportunities AI brings. Automation allows for the elimination of mundane tasks, freeing up workers to focus on more creative and complex work. Upskilling and reskilling efforts can help workers adapt to
the changing job market, while the development of AI systems creates new job opportunities.
Augmented intelligence promotes collaboration between humans and machines, leading to increased productivity and innovation. However, ethical considerations and human supervision are vital to ensure the responsible and equitable use of AI. With the right approach, AI has the potential to enhance employment and create a more efficient and inclusive workforce.
11 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021) Availabe on:
https://www.unesco.org/en/artificial-intelligence/recommendation-ethics/cases Accessed on 24 June 2023
While AI brings numerous benefits, it also raises ethical concerns, particularly in relation to employment. 10 One of the primary concerns is the potential for bias in AI systems. If AI algorithms are trained on biased or
incomplete data, they may perpetuate existing biases and discrimination. For instance, a company, Hirevue, uses facial recognition AI to rate the confidence levels, IQ, ethnicity, gender, personality type, and even criminality of job seekers by rating their video images according to verbal and non-verbal cues.
This can have a negative impact on employment practices, such as biased hiring or discriminatory decision-making. Hiring systems are trained using data from top performers. If the data favours a particular sect based on gender or race, then the system will generate recommendations in favour of that group in providing recommendations for hiring.
10 Alex Najibi (2020) Racial Discrimination in Facial Recognition Technology Harvard University’s Schoolof Engineering and Applied Sciences – Special Edition on Science Policy and Social Justice. Available at: https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2020/racial-discrimination-in-face-recognition-technology/ Accessed on: 26 June 2023.
To address these concerns, it is crucial to ensure human supervision and accountability in the development and deployment of AI systems. Humans should have oversight of AI algorithms to identify and mitigate biases. Additionally, ethical frameworks and regulations need to be in place to govern the use of AI and protect against potential harms to workers. Furthermore, it is pertinent to establish and foster informed public discussion around the design, development and deployment of AI systems. These
discussions ought to be led by the public sector and be open to all stakeholders to ensure a robust multivocality and communication. Public forum discussions are particularly crucial in the absence of municipal and international legal frameworks that specifically address AI. These discussions will serve as policy drivers, filling the gap and guiding decisions related to artificial intelligence to preserve human rights, the climate and other social issues in the proliferation of AI. 11
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence has undoubtedly transformed the employment landscape. While there are valid concerns about job displacement, it is important to recognize the opportunities AI brings. Automation allows for the elimination of mundane tasks, freeing up workers to focus on more creative and complex work. Upskilling and reskilling efforts can help workers adapt to
the changing job market, while the development of AI systems creates new job opportunities.
Augmented intelligence promotes collaboration between humans and machines, leading to increased productivity and innovation. However, ethical considerations and human supervision are vital to ensure the responsible
and equitable use of AI. With the right approach, AI has the potential to enhance employment and create a more efficient and inclusive workforce.
————————————————–
11 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021) Availabe on:
https://www.unesco.org/en/artificial-intelligence/recommendation-ethics/cases Accessed on 24 June 2023
