Accenture has introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the skills gap in artificial intelligence across the UK. The ‘Regenerative AI’ scheme is set to educate and mentor over a million individuals, particularly focusing on youth and job seekers.
- The program, in partnership with the Open University, will offer free education and mentorship on generative AI.
- An alarming number of 8.5 million UK adults lack basic digital skills, putting many at a disadvantage.
- Current figures indicate less than 30% of tech workers are women, while individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds make up less than 10%.
- Key figures emphasize the urgency in equipping the UK workforce with the necessary skills for AI.
Accenture has unveiled a significant initiative designed to address the skills gap in AI technology within the UK. Named the ‘Regenerative AI’ scheme, this program aims to educate and mentor individuals of various ages, free of charge, enhancing their competencies in artificial intelligence. The initiative’s primary goal is to reach over a million people, with a special focus on younger individuals still in education, as well as job seekers.
The program, in collaboration with the Open University, introduces a new course aimed at thousands of potential job applicants. This course will equip participants with practical skills necessary for leveraging generative AI in the job market, thereby improving their employment prospects. With AI becoming increasingly central to numerous job roles, acquiring these skills is paramount for those entering the workforce.
Alarmingly, data from the Lloyds Banking Group ‘Essential Digital Skills’ survey highlights that 8.5 million adults in the UK are still lacking basic digital skills. This gap places these individuals at risk of missing out on the educational, social, and economic opportunities that AI presents. Addressing this digital deficiency is crucial for fostering an inclusive society where everyone can benefit from technological advances.
Additionally, the current demographic makeup of the tech workforce reveals significant disparities. Women constitute less than 30% of this sector, while those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds account for under 10%. These figures underscore the importance of diversity and inclusivity within the tech industry. Programs like Accenture’s are essential in promoting wider participation and representation, which in turn drives innovation and productivity.
Shaheen Sayed, the Head of Accenture in the UK, Ireland & Africa, stated, “The true accelerator for AI will be people and equipping the UK’s current and future workforce as well as the wider community with the skills to use it.” Her sentiments echo the calls for urgent action to bridge the digital skills gap, emphasizing the need for widespread access to these educational opportunities.
Minister Sir Chris Bryant also commented on the transformative potential of AI, noting, “AI is poised to be a transformative force and ensuring people have the digital skills to match these opportunities is key to unlocking its potential and creating a workforce fit for the future.” His observation highlights the significant opportunity for growth within the AI sector, contingent on equipping individuals with relevant skills.
The new initiative by Accenture represents a vital step towards empowering the UK’s workforce with essential AI skills, fostering inclusivity and economic growth.
