Global Strategies for AI Workforce Preparation: A Comparative Study

Half of today's jobs could vanish -- Here's how smart countries are future-proofing workers

Artificial intelligence is spreading into many aspects of life, from communications and advertising to grading tests. But with the growth of AI comes a shake-up in the workplace. New research from the University of Georgia is shedding light on how different countries are preparing for how AI will impact their workforces. According to previous research, almost half of today's jobs could vanish over the next 20 years. But it's not all doom and gloom. Researchers also estimate that 65% of current elementary school students will have jobs in the future that don't exist now. Most of these new careers will require advanced AI skills and knowledge. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI." -- Lehong Shi, College of Education To tackle these challenges, governments around the world are taking steps to help their citizens gain the skills they'll need. The present study examined 50 countries' national AI strategies, focusing on policies for education and the workforce. Learning what other countries are doing could help the U.S. improve its own plans for workforce preparation in the era of AI, the researcher said. "AI skills and competencies are very important," said Lehong Shi, author of the study and an assistant research scientist at UGA's Mary Frances Early College of Education. "If you want to be competitive in other areas, it's very important to prepare employees to work with AI in the future." Some countries put larger focus on training, education Shi used six indicators to evaluate each country's prioritization on AI workforce training and education: the plan's objective, how goals will be reached, examples of projects, how success will be measured, how projects will be supported and the timelines for each project. Each nation was classified as giving high, medium or low priority to prepare an AI competent workforce depending on how each aspect of their plan was detailed. Of the countries studied, only 13 gave high prioritization to training the current workforce and improving AI education in schools. Eleven of those were European countries, with Mexico and Australia being the two exceptions. This may be because European nations tend to have more resources for training and cultures of lifelong learning, the researcher said. The United States was one of 23 countries that considered workforce training and AI education a medium priority, with a less detailed plan compared to countries that saw them as a high priority. Different countries prioritize different issues when it comes to AI preparation Some common themes emerged between countries, even when their approaches to AI differed. For example, almost every nation aimed to establish or improve AI-focused programs in universities. Some also aimed to improve AI education for K-12 students. On-the-job training was also a priority for more than half the countries, with some offering industry-specific training programs or internships. However, few focused on vulnerable populations such as the elderly or unemployed through programs to teach them basic AI skills. Shi stressed that just because a country gives less prioritization to education and workforce preparation doesn't mean AI isn't on its radar. Some Asian countries, for example, put more effort into improving national security and health care rather than education. Cultivating interest in AI could help students prepare for careers Some countries took a lifelong approach to developing these specialized skills. Germany, for instance, emphasized creating a culture that encourages interest in AI. Spain started teaching kids AI-related skills as early as preschool. Of the many actions governments took, Shi noted one area that needs more emphasis when preparing future AI-empowered workplaces. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI," Shi said. "And they were only mentioned by a few countries." Developing these sorts of "soft skills" is key to making sure students and employees continue to have a place in the workforce.

Some countries are prioritizing AI workforce preparation through curriculum and job training

Artificial intelligence is spreading into many aspects of life, from communications and advertising to grading tests. But with the growth of AI comes a shake-up in the workplace. New research from the University of Georgia is shedding light on how different countries are preparing for how AI will impact their workforces. The paper is published in the journal Human Resource Development Review. According to previous research, almost half of today's jobs could vanish over the next 20 years. But it's not all doom and gloom. Researchers also estimate that 65% of current elementary school students will have jobs in the future that don't exist now. Most of these new careers will require advanced AI skills and knowledge. To tackle these challenges, governments around the world are taking steps to help their citizens gain the skills they'll need. The present study examined 50 countries' national AI strategies, focusing on policies for education and the workforce. Learning what other countries are doing could help the U.S. improve its own plans for workforce preparation in the era of AI, the researcher said. "AI skills and competencies are very important," said Lehong Shi, author of the study and an assistant research scientist at UGA's Mary Frances Early College of Education. "If you want to be competitive in other areas, it's very important to prepare employees to work with AI in the future." Some countries put larger focus on training, education Shi used six indicators to evaluate each country's prioritization on AI workforce training and education: the plan's objective, how goals will be reached, examples of projects, how success will be measured, how projects will be supported and the timelines for each project. Each nation was classified as giving high, medium or low priority to prepare an AI competent workforce depending on how each aspect of their plan was detailed. Of the countries studied, only 13 gave high prioritization to training the current workforce and improving AI education in schools. Eleven of those were European countries, with Mexico and Australia being the two exceptions. This may be because European nations tend to have more resources for training and cultures of lifelong learning, the researcher said. The United States was one of 23 countries that considered workforce training and AI education a medium priority, with a less detailed plan compared to countries that saw them as a high priority. Different countries prioritize different issues when it comes to AI preparation Some common themes emerged between countries, even when their approaches to AI differed. For example, almost every nation aimed to establish or improve AI-focused programs in universities. Some also aimed to improve AI education for K-12 students. On-the-job training was also a priority for more than half the countries, with some offering industry-specific training programs or internships. However, few focused on vulnerable populations such as the elderly or unemployed through programs to teach them basic AI skills. Shi stressed that just because a country gives less prioritization to education and workforce preparation doesn't mean AI isn't on its radar. Some Asian countries, for example, put more effort into improving national security and health care rather than education. Cultivating interest in AI could help students prepare for careers Some countries took a lifelong approach to developing these specialized skills. Germany, for instance, emphasized creating a culture that encourages interest in AI. Spain started teaching kids AI-related skills as early as preschool. Of the many actions governments took, Shi noted one area that needs more emphasis when preparing future AI-empowered workplaces. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI," Shi said. "And they were only mentioned by a few countries." Developing these sorts of "soft skills" is key to making sure students and employees continue to have a place in the workforce.

AI is disrupting jobs, but countries are learning to adapt - Earth.com

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic dream. It's already shaping how people learn, work, communicate, and make decisions. From virtual assistants and advertising to grading exams and diagnosing diseases, artifical intelligence is everywhere. With each breakthrough, the future of the workplace evolves in ways many people never imagined. As AI takes on more complex roles, many jobs that humans do today may disappear. This reality creates both a challenge and an opportunity. Governments and schools now face the question: How can they prepare people for a future dominated by AI? New research from the University of Georgia (UGA) offers answers. It explores how 50 countries are dealing with this shift, especially in education and workforce development. The study's findings show a wide range of strategies and priorities, offering a glimpse into what the future of work might look like worldwide. The fear that machines will replace humans has existed for centuries. But this time, it's not just physical labor at risk. White-collar and creative roles are also under pressure. Previous research estimates that nearly half of today's jobs could disappear within the next 20 years. Still, this change is not entirely negative. Researchers also believe that 65% of today's elementary school students will work in careers that don't yet exist. Most of these new roles will require deep knowledge of AI tools, systems, and logic. That means the real risk lies not in losing jobs but in failing to prepare for the jobs of the future. The human element remains essential. Machines may learn patterns, but they lack emotional intelligence and intuition. These traits will continue to set people apart. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI," noted Lehong Shi from the College of Education. The UGA study, led by Lehong Shi, reviewed national artificial intelligence strategies from 50 countries. It looked closely at how each nation planned to educate its citizens and train workers in AI-related areas. Shi examined six indicators to rank these efforts: the strategy's goals, methods of implementation, examples of projects, success metrics, support structures, and timelines. Based on this analysis, countries were grouped into three categories: high, medium, or low priority for developing an AI-ready workforce. Only 13 countries earned a high-priority status. Eleven of them were European, with Mexico and Australia rounding out the group. This shows that some nations are already thinking long-term. According to Shi, European countries often benefit from strong educational systems and cultures that support lifelong learning. These factors make it easier for them to act quickly and plan deeply. The U.S. did not make the high-priority list. It was among 23 countries that placed medium importance on preparing for AI. This means its national AI strategy lacks the same level of detail found in more committed countries. That doesn't mean nothing is happening. American universities are building AI labs, and companies are offering training. But without a coordinated national effort, the U.S. risks falling behind. Nations that make bigger investments now may have a stronger and more flexible workforce in the future. Despite their differences, countries often shared certain priorities. Nearly every nation aimed to expand AI programs in universities. Many also wanted to include AI in primary and secondary education, preparing students from an early age. More than half of the countries focused on using AI for on-the-job training. These efforts ranged from formal internships to custom programs for industries like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing. While these steps are helpful, the study found a lack of focus on vulnerable groups. Older adults, unemployed people, and those with limited education were often left out of national strategies. Some countries focused their efforts in other directions. For instance, several Asian countries prioritized AI for defense and healthcare instead of education. Shi emphasized that these choices reflect national priorities and don't mean AI is being ignored. A few countries stood out for their unique approaches. Germany, for example, chose to build a culture around AI awareness. The goal is to promote long-term interest in AI, rather than just offering training. Spain took a different but equally impressive route. It started teaching AI-related skills to children in preschool. These examples show that preparing for AI does not begin in adulthood. Building curiosity and confidence from an early age helps children adapt easily to future careers. It also reduces fear and builds resilience in the face of rapid change. Yet, even among countries with strong strategies to prepare for the age of AI, one key area was often ignored. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI," Shi said. "And they were only mentioned by a few countries." This is a critical oversight. Machines can analyze data and solve technical problems, but they can't brainstorm like humans. Soft skills support teamwork, leadership, and customer service. Without them, even the most technically skilled worker may struggle. The study has a clear conclusion. Some countries are charging ahead with AI workforce plans. Others are still testing the waters. A few focus mostly on education and training. Others lean into AI technology for healthcare, security, or economics. The routes vary, but the finish line looks the same. To keep up, people need real skills - not just tech know-how, but the ability to think clearly, lead with confidence, and connect with others. Some countries begin this work early, ohers drag their feet, and a few cast a wide net. Too many still leave entire groups behind. What happens next isn't about machines. It's about the decisions we make now. The countries that keep learning, stay flexible, and bring everyone along will handle the AI wave better than the rest. The study is published in the journal Human Resource Development Review. -- - Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

How the World Is Preparing the Workforce for AI | Newswise

Newswise -- Artificial intelligence is spreading into many aspects of life, from communications and advertising to grading tests. But with the growth of AI comes a shake-up in the workplace. New research from the University of Georgia is shedding light on how different countries are preparing for how AI will impact their workforces. According to previous research, almost half of today's jobs could vanish over the next 20 years. But it's not all doom and gloom. Researchers also estimate that 65% of current elementary school students will have jobs in the future that don't exist now. Most of these new careers will require advanced AI skills and knowledge. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI." -- Lehong Shi, College of Education To tackle these challenges, governments around the world are taking steps to help their citizens gain the skills they'll need. The present study examined 50 countries' national AI strategies, focusing on policies for education and the workforce. Learning what other countries are doing could help the U.S. improve its own plans for workforce preparation in the era of AI, the researcher said. "AI skills and competencies are very important," said Lehong Shi, author of the study and an assistant research scientist at UGA's Mary Frances Early College of Education. "If you want to be competitive in other areas, it's very important to prepare employees to work with AI in the future." Shi used six indicators to evaluate each country's prioritization on AI workforce training and education: the plan's objective, how goals will be reached, examples of projects, how success will be measured, how projects will be supported and the timelines for each project. Each nation was classified as giving high, medium or low priority to prepare an AI competent workforce depending on how each aspect of their plan was detailed. Of the countries studied, only 13 gave high prioritization to training the current workforce and improving AI education in schools. Eleven of those were European countries, with Mexico and Australia being the two exceptions. This may be because European nations tend to have more resources for training and cultures of lifelong learning, the researcher said. The United States was one of 23 countries that considered workforce training and AI education a medium priority, with a less detailed plan compared to countries that saw them as a high priority. Some common themes emerged between countries, even when their approaches to AI differed. For example, almost every nation aimed to establish or improve AI-focused programs in universities. Some also aimed to improve AI education for K-12 students. On-the-job training was also a priority for more than half the countries, with some offering industry-specific training programs or internships. However, few focused on vulnerable populations such as the elderly or unemployed through programs to teach them basic AI skills. Shi stressed that just because a country gives less prioritization to education and workforce preparation doesn't mean AI isn't on its radar. Some Asian countries, for example, put more effort into improving national security and health care rather than education. Some countries took a lifelong approach to developing these specialized skills. Germany, for instance, emphasized creating a culture that encourages interest in AI. Spain started teaching kids AI-related skills as early as preschool. Of the many actions governments took, Shi noted one area that needs more emphasis when preparing future AI-empowered workplaces. "Human soft skills, such as creativity, collaboration and communication cannot be replaced by AI," Shi said. "And they were only mentioned by a few countries." Developing these sorts of "soft skills" is key to making sure students and employees continue to have a place in the workforce.