Caribbean Telecommunications Union Launches New AI Taskforce
The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) has launched the Caribbean AI Task Force, a key step for the region in developing and regulating artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative is focused on preparing the Caribbean to engage with AI development while aligning efforts with local priorities and values.
Four Core Objectives
- Policy Harmonization: Establish consistent AI policies and regulatory frameworks across Caribbean nations to ensure legal clarity and interoperability.
- Capacity Building: Develop regional AI talent, especially focusing on youth, women, and underrepresented groups.
- Ethical AI Practices: Promote responsible AI that supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Cross-Sector Collaboration: Foster cooperation among governments, academia, private sector, and civil society to drive AI innovation.
Leadership and Vision
Dr. Craig Ramlal, Chair of the Caribbean AI Task Force, brings extensive expertise as an AI researcher and academic at The University of the West Indies. Recognized by the United Nations as a leading AI expert, he focuses on AI applications that advance Caribbean development and advocates for ethical digital technology use.
Hon. Dominic Smith, CTU President and Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, emphasized that AI is a transformative force that must be guided with ethics and inclusivity. He views the Task Force as both an opportunity and a responsibility to develop AI solutions that reflect Caribbean values and address regional challenges.
Regional Context and Strategic Importance
The Task Force builds on recent regional frameworks such as the UNESCO Caribbean Artificial Intelligence Policy Roadmap and the CAF Roadmap for National AI Implementation. These efforts underline the importance of coordinated, ethical, and context-relevant AI strategies for developing regions.
National leadership, exemplified by Trinidad and Tobago’s vision for AI-driven public service, has been praised by the CTU. The Task Force will include regional experts tasked with policy recommendations, drafting model legislation, and supporting pilot projects that demonstrate AI’s potential to promote sustainable development across the Caribbean.
Looking Ahead
This initiative creates a platform for the Caribbean to set its own AI agenda with a focus on ethics, equity, and empowerment. It aims to unite stakeholders from across the region to ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that benefit all communities.
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