Business Bayani PH

The AI Governance Alliance (AIGA) unveiled three comprehensive reports on January 18 in a move towards fostering equitable global access to advanced artificial intelligence (AI). These reports focus on generative AI governance, responsible AI development, and the imperative need for inclusivity in the deployment of this groundbreaking technology.

Headed by Cathy Li, the head of AI, Data, and Metaverse at the World Economic Forum, AIGA brings together governments, businesses, and experts to shape responsible AI development and governance. The alliance is dedicated to ensuring worldwide access to this transformative technology and fostering its ethical and responsible use.

“The AIGA is uniquely positioned to play a crucial role in furthering greater access to AI-related resources, thereby contributing to a more equitable and responsible AI ecosystem globally,” states Cathy Li. “We must collaborate among governments, the private sector, and local communities to ensure the future of AI benefits all.”

AIGA is actively calling upon experts from diverse sectors to address key areas, including enhancing data quality across nations, improving access to computational resources, and adapting foundational models to address local needs and challenges. 

Emphasizing education and the development of local expertise are also integral to creating and navigating effective local AI ecosystems. To achieve these goals, the alliance advocates for the establishment of new institutional frameworks, public-private partnerships, and the implementation of multilateral controls.

As AI technology advances rapidly, there is a pressing need to bridge the digital divide to prevent it from widening or creating new disparities. In collaboration with IBM Consulting and Accenture, AIGA released a new briefing paper series that explores topics such as the potential benefits of AI in addressing global challenges and the risks associated with digital divides.

On the international stage, the report titled “Generative AI Governance: Shaping Our Collective Global Future” evaluates national approaches, addresses key debates on generative AI, and advocates for international coordination and standards to prevent fragmentation. This aligns with AIGA’s goal of fostering collaboration and inclusivity in AI development and deployment.

The report titled “Unlocking Value from Generative AI: Guidance for Responsible Transformation” provides actionable guidance on the responsible adoption of generative AI. It emphasizes use case-based evaluation, multistakeholder governance, transparent communication, operational structures, and value-based change management for scalable and responsible integration into organizations.

For optimized AI development and deployment, the report titled “Presidio AI Framework: Towards Safe Generative AI Models” addresses the need for standardized perspectives on the model lifecycle. It establishes a framework for shared responsibility and proactive risk management, ensuring the safe and responsible evolution of AI models.

The alliance, recognizing the potential of AI benefits in key sectors, including healthcare and education, is actively seeking to mobilize resources for exploration in these areas.

“As we witness the rapid evolution of artificial Intelligence globally, the UAE stands committed to fostering an inclusive AI environment, both within our nation and throughout the world,” says H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications of the United Arab Emirates.

Rwanda, represented by Paula Ingabire, minister of information communication technology and innovation, is actively engaging in AI governance to ensure the region does not lag in shaping the future of AI. A high-level summit on AI in Africa is planned towards the end of 2024 to align African countries on common risks, barriers, and opportunities.

IBM vice-chairman Gary Cohn emphasizes IBM’s dedication to responsible AI and governance. He stresses the need for global collaboration across corporations, governments, and civil society to create ethical frameworks for the design and deployment of generative AI.

Paul Daugherty, chief technology innovation officer at Accenture, underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sector in building and scaling AI responsibly. He highlights the need for inclusive AI to ensure benefits are shared globally.

AIGA’s call for inclusive access to advanced AI marks a pivotal step in shaping a future where AI benefits are universally accessible, leaving no community behind. The alliance’s comprehensive reports and collaborative efforts reflect a commitment to responsible AI development and governance on a global scale.◼