Thailand is gearing up for significant technological transformations, especially concerning artificial intelligence (AI) as experts predict radical changes by 2025. With the rapid advancement of AI technologies, the country faces both exciting opportunities and substantial challenges.
Dr. Chaiporn Khemapatthaphan, Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology at Dhurakij Pundit University (DPU), shared insights about the anticipated developments during discussions at the university. He emphasized the need for every individual, regardless of age, to understand and adapt to the changes AI will bring. "AI will require readiness to tackle new challenges unlike any before," he stated, underscoring the potential impact on everyday life.
Over the past couple of years, AI has increasingly integrated itself within everyday activities, from work to education. Reports suggest significant growth, particularly with technologies like Generative AI, which aid various tasks. According to Dr. Khemapatthaphan, "Generative AI can help reduce time and processes tied to repetitive tasks," leading to enhanced workplace efficiency. Projections by McKinsey & Company indicate the global market for businesses utilizing Generative AI could see average annual growth of 46.47% from 2024 to 2030.
Interestingly, as traditional search engine queries decline, usage of AI platforms such as ChatGPT is on the rise. Dr. Khemapatthaphan highlighted this shift, observing, "Current usage of AI like ChatGPT is on the rise," pointing to the challenges posed to traditional search methods.
Despite the promising aspects of AI advancements, concerns linger about the technology's potential downsides, particularly automation's ability to replace human jobs. Caution is advised when dealing with AI outputs, which may occasionally lead to unexpected results or errors, highlighting the necessity for human oversight. "To survive the era of AI, we must view it as a tool to improve our work," Dr. Khemapatthaphan warned, indicating the importance of augmenting human capabilities rather than outright replacing them.
The advent of AI agents capable of performing tasks autonomously signifies the shifting nature of jobs. Current trials involve AI processes handling functions like email management and even automated customer interactions. Automation may boost productivity but raises urgent questions about job security and the ethical use of AI technologies.
Research has shown consumer demand for AI-driven services continues to escalate, reinforcing the sector's relevance. Dr. Khemapatthaphan noted the potential for businesses to leverage AI for marketing by creating targeted strategies and enhancing customer engagement through chatbots operational at all hours. "Current tools can act almost like personal assistants," he suggested, asserting their role is becoming indispensable.
For educational institutions, the focus is increasingly on equipping students with AI and technology-related knowledge. DPU has developed new undergraduate and postgraduate programs, instilling AI literacy from early stages up till advanced levels. "Through these programs, we aim to build competence needed for future workplaces, with increasing emphasis on AI and technology adaptation," explained Dr. Khemapatthaphan.
Still, he stressed the pressing need for caution as AI technologies evolve. Adapting AI tools necessarily involves ensuring personal data remains secure as these agents often require sensitive information to operate effectively. This security concern can lead to hesitance addressing privacy and data management as people become reliant on these systems.
The path forward as we move toward 2025 dares us to innovate and embrace technology, but it also calls for mindfulness. Balancing the benefits AI offers with the realities of job displacement and ethical concerns will be pivotal for society. Dr. Khemapatthaphan concluded, "Embracing AI as our partner will allow us to thrive and not merely survive; hence, the responsibility lies with us to develop our skills continuously."
Understanding these nuances surrounding AI will be instrumental as Thailand approaches its technological future.
