Former Deputy Prime Minister Professor Arthur Mutambara has called on young people and employees across all industries to embrace artificial intelligence (AI), warning that failure to adapt could lead to job losses.
Speaking at the recent launch of his new book “Artificial Intelligence: A Driver of Inclusive Development and Shared Prosperity for the Global South” in Bulawayo, Prof Mutambara said AI is already transforming key sectors globally and must be integrated into daily work practices.
“Youth must acquire the skills necessary to remain relevant in an AI-driven world,” he said. “AI is advancing rapidly. If you don’t understand it, you risk being left behind, your job may no longer exist.”
He acknowledged the fear surrounding AI in the Global South, particularly concerns over job displacement. However, he urged the public to move beyond fear and instead prepare for the opportunities that AI presents.
“Most of us fear AI because we associate it with job losses. Yes, there will be job destruction, this is the bad news. But there is also good news: jobs will be modified, and entirely new jobs will be created,” said Prof Mutambara.
He added that the real danger lies not in the technology itself, but in the reluctance to learn new skills.
“We must ensure people are trained for the modified and new roles. Those who are upskilled will thrive in this new world.”
Prof Mutambara urged education institutions to integrate AI education at the grassroots level and called on businesses to invest in upskilling their workforce.
“There is a need to upskill those at risk of displacement. Workers must be equipped with the capabilities to understand and use AI tools. It’s a question of efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness,” he said.
He concluded by emphasising the need for a balanced transition.
“We must ensure that those displaced by AI are matched or exceeded in number by those who benefit from job creation and modification. If not, we would have failed to adapt.”
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