AI Impact: Dowidar's Insights
Group CEO of e& (formerly known as Etisalat), Hatem Dowidar, addressed the potential impact of AI on the workforce at the World Government Summit in Dubai. Dowidar highlighted the importance of upskilling workers to interpret AI-generated data and prevent job loss in the face of automation. While AI may replace repetitive tasks like data collection, proactive efforts to train employees in decision-making and data interpretation can mitigate the impact. Dowidar emphasized the role of humans in responding to AI-generated alarms and making informed decisions, illustrating how AI enhances human capabilities rather than replacing them entirely.
Drawing on examples like CCTV surveillance, Dowidar showcased how AI advancements enable real-time analysis to detect suspicious activities, augmenting human observation. He emphasized that AI serves as an intelligent assistant, enhancing productivity and efficiency without completely replacing human roles. At e&, the company has embraced AI as a fundamental component of its strategy, transitioning from a telecom provider to a technology company.
Internally, e& has restructured and prioritized talent acquisition to ensure readiness for the future. Dowidar discussed the company's initiatives to prepare its workforce for the AI era, including a graduate AI program and reskilling programs for existing employees. The focus is on making AI accessible to all employees, regardless of their coding expertise, to foster a skilled and confident workforce in the evolving AI landscape.
By: Sahiba Suri
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