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Skills in the Age of AI: Preparing for a Hybrid Workforce

The expert panel at AMGFC Dubai 2024 shared forward-thinking insights on how AI will redefine the workforce, focusing on the evolving role of human skills alongside AI integration. Rather than replacing human roles, AI is expected to drive an extensive transformation in job requirements and skill demands. Notably, 75% of companies plan to adopt AI, emphasising roles that complement rather than replace human expertise. Here’s how the workforce is predicted to evolve and how leaders can prepare:

1. Job Transformation and Skill Shifts

AI will reshape roles across industries, pushing nearly half of today’s workforce to reskill within five years. Technical proficiency in data analytics and critical thinking will become essential, along with adaptability. This shift underlines the need for a dual focus on technological and problem-solving skills, positioning employees to manage AI-driven tasks with greater precision and insight​

2. Focus on Human-Centric Skills

While AI excels in data processing, human-centric skills—empathy, creativity, and collaboration—are irreplaceable. These uniquely human qualities are increasingly valuable as they allow employees to interpret data, generate innovative solutions, and work effectively alongside AI​

3. Demand for Specialised Roles

Rather than fully automating the workforce, AI will require a broader range of specialised roles that focus on interpreting AI-driven insights and refining data. Leaders are thus encouraged to prioritise specialised over general skills to enhance the impact of AI on their organisations​

4. Increased Access to Training

Despite rapid AI adoption, only half of companies currently provide adequate reskilling opportunities. To bridge this gap, organisations are implementing lifelong learning models that ensure employees stay prepared for ongoing technological advances.​

Preparing for the Age of AI: Strategies for Leaders

As these shifts unfold, a proactive approach is essential for leaders to guide their organisations through AI's transformative impact:

• Prioritise Reskilling and Lifelong Learning: Leaders are advised to integrate robust training programs that combine technical and human-centric skills, enabling employees to collaborate with AI while providing essential human insights.

• Foster a Culture of Adaptability: To thrive in an evolving environment, organisations must encourage a mindset that embraces change. Adaptability, emphasised by panellists as a critical skill, will empower employees to learn and grow alongside AI advancements.

• Adopt Ethical AI Practices: Embedding ethical considerations in AI usage is crucial. Leaders should create policies that prioritise transparency and responsible AI use, aligning with Professor Pascale Fung’s reminder of the ethical ramifications of AI adoption​

• Collaborate Across Sectors: Establishing guidelines and partnerships with other organisations and government bodies can help address challenges like data privacy and automation’s societal impacts, fostering a responsible approach to AI​

• Invest in Mental Health and Wellbeing: With AI-driven changes impacting role stability, providing resources for employee well-being is essential. Organisations should support mental health and help employees adapt smoothly through these transitions​

A Balanced, Human-Centric Future

Preparing for the age of AI requires a blend of technical readiness, ethical practices, adaptability, and robust employee support. Fostering these qualities, leaders can guide their organisations through AI’s transformative power, creating a hybrid workforce that combines AI efficiency with human creativity and insight. For more, visit the World Economic Forum’s Dubai 2024 page.