India’s AI talent growth is supported by STEM education, industry-academia collaboration, government initiatives, and global collaboration. Ensuring diversity and inclusion, utilizing online platforms, and addressing global skill demand are crucial for India’s success in the AI landscape.
The recent Artificial Intelligence Index Report 2024 published by Stanford University has good news about India’s talent pool. India, according to the report, is emerging as a global frontrunner for AI talent. However, despite being at the cusp of the AI revolution, India could lose out on early-mover advantage if proper steps are not taken to nurture its talent. In fact, according to the India Skills Report 2024, India will see a demand for nearly 1 million AI professionals by 2026, with the current count hovering at only 4.16 lakh.
As the world’s top hub for IT services, the appetite for STEM education in the country is already among the highest in the world. Over the past few years, AI-led skills and courses including machine learning, data science, DevOps, data architecture, natural language processing, and deep learning have started attracting thousands of Indian students. But without long-term and short-term strategies, India could soon lose out in the global race and face a shortage of skilled professionals. From governmental policy support to stronger collaboration between industry and academia; several steps need to be taken to ensure that India stays ahead in the global AI race.
Education and Skill Development
While several universities and colleges, especially those specialising in engineering and related fields, have already jumped on the bandwagon with offerings in the field of AI; it is important to ensure that the courses and the professors who are teaching them are up to speed on global standards. Investments into education and skills development programmes focused on AI technologies are an important factor in creating a robust AI ecosystem. With fast-paced breakthroughs in AI technology; specialised university curricula on the subject is a pressing priority. Upskilling and reskilling are important for both freshers and mid-career professionals. Further, research and innovation in the field of AI are vital, moving forward to create a resilient talent pool.
Industry-Academia Collaboration
A culture of entrepreneurship and a strong collaboration between industry and academia can help align educational programmes with the skills needed in the AI job market. Industry experts can be roped in to support internship programmes and research projects. Cross-pollination between industry and academia is important for students and professionals to engage in continuous learning and development. Opportunities need to be created by both employers and educational institutions to support training.
Government Support
The potential impact of AI on the way that humans work and live is being compared to that of ground-breaking innovations in history such as electricity, computing, and the internet. Hence the role of the government is crucial in fostering the growth of talent by providing incentives for AI research and development, funding for startups, and policy initiatives.
Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in human resources are the buzzwords being adopted by progressive organisations globally and it is essential that DEI be embraced in the field of AI too. Efforts are needed by early adopters in India to ensure diversity and inclusion exists in the workplace. This includes promoting gender, socio-economic, and ethnic diversity.
Global Collaboration
Collaboration with cutting-edge global companies and research institutions is necessary to provide a window to expertise and resources to address the issue of home-grown AI talent. In this context, advances in technology, such as online learning platforms and AI tools for education need to be highlighted.
Adopting a robust strategy to create a strong AI talent pipeline will help India leap-frog into the future to address the growing demand for highly skilled professionals not just in the domestic market but also overseas.
This article was originally published on TechGig.
