AI Transformation: Moving Beyond Adoption
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a concept in South Africa; it is actively reshaping the public sector, according to Dell Technologies.
However, the company emphasizes that the transformation goes beyond mere adoption.
“For governments to unlock the full potential of AI, it’s essential to implement technology thoughtfully and strategically,” said Mohammed Amin, senior vice president of Ceemeta at Dell Technologies.
Ethical Considerations
To fully harness the potential of AI and avoid potential pitfalls, governments need to navigate a complex landscape of ethical considerations, data security requirements, and the imperative for workforce readiness.
Last November, Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi highlighted the importance of balancing the ethical use of artificial intelligence in South Africa.
“We are still in the early stages. We have released a policy framework for public feedback, which will inform the final policy document,” Malatsi stated.
He emphasized the need to strike a balance to ensure that AI is used ethically and does not contribute to the spread of deep fakes, misinformation, and disinformation.
Empowering Societies with AI
Amin outlined five key steps to ensure that AI empowers societies, strengthens governance, and enhances public services.
These steps include defining a clear vision for AI integration, establishing ethical AI frameworks, and ensuring data security and AI-ready infrastructure.
“Ethical AI is not just about compliance – it’s about building trust. Citizens should have confidence that AI decisions are fair, transparent, and in their best interests,” Amin explained.
He also emphasized the importance of upskilling the public sector workforce and developing homegrown AI capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign tech providers and create self-sustaining ecosystems.
Technological Innovations
Meanwhile, Dell Technologies introduced its new PC portfolio, featuring a unified lineup designed for work and play, including the Dell, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max with AI capabilities.
The launch also includes innovative monitor technology that enhances color accuracy, eye comfort, and audio quality for an advanced computing experience.
Last year, Microsoft South Africa announced its efforts to create computers that understand humans, rather than the other way around. With the launch of its Copilot+ devices, Microsoft has made significant strides in the realm of AI.
