Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the capacity to simplify our lives and tackle some of the most intricate challenges faced by society. These include preventing diseases, improving urban functionality, predicting natural disasters, and addressing issues such as food security.
In Brazil, machine learning is being utilized to combat deforestation. In Ghana, the AI Center in Accra is able to identify locust outbreaks that pose a threat to food crops, enabling farmers to take preventive measures. In Abu Dhabi, the Green Light project aids in reducing stop-and-go emissions by optimizing traffic light timing based on traffic flow. Furthermore, AI holds the potential to create new economic opportunities in emerging markets. According to an Access Partnership report, AI could potentially generate up to $136 billion in economic benefits in Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana. To tap into this potential, efforts are being made to support AI startups, offer free training programs, and enhance business outcomes while safeguarding users.
The development and application of AI also give rise to concerns about fairness, bias, misinformation, security, and the future of work. It is crucial for local researchers in each country to take the lead in exploring risks and seizing opportunities. To support this, the Digital Futures Project was launched in September of this year. This initiative aims to provide backing for researchers, academics, and organizations engaged in independent research and analysis, and to stimulate discussion on public policy solutions for the responsible advancement of AI.
As part of the project, Google.org is awarding grants to prominent think tanks and academic institutions across the globe to encourage discourse and investigation into this vital technology. In continuation of the recent announcement in Europe, six grant recipients in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East have been unveiled, along with their research projects focusing on how AI can unleash local growth opportunities.
This reflects our ongoing dedication to collaborating with industry, academia, governments, and civil society, and to supporting independent thinkers representing diverse viewpoints.
