AS 2025 approaches, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and changing the skills needed for success in the global workforce. While much attention focuses on developed economies, AI has immense potential to transform developing economies.
However, this shift comes with challenges and opportunities. Individuals and organisations must adapt to thrive in this fast-changing landscape.
This article highlights the essential skills and strategies needed to succeed in AI-driven economies, particularly in developing regions.
Essential skills for the AI era
AI literacy and technical proficiency are foundational for workforce development in developing economies such as Zimbabwe. Understanding how AI works, its applications, and limitations equips individuals to leverage this technology effectively. Increasingly, workers in countries such as Kenya and India are enrolling in online courses through platforms such as Coursera and edX to learn AI basics and machine learning.
Skills such as coding in Python and using AI tools unlock opportunities in agriculture, healthcare, and e-commerce.
Equally important is adaptability and flexibility. Economic shifts and technological advancements demand workers, who can adjust quickly to new realities.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Nigerian entrepreneurs successfully transitioned to digital platforms to sustain their businesses, demonstrating how crucial adaptability is for thriving in an AI-driven future.
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Digital literacy forms the backbone of success in economies still undergoing digital transformation.
Familiarity with tools such as mobile banking apps and e-commerce platforms boosts productivity and access to opportunities.
Initiatives such as India’s Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA) illustrate the power of training rural populations in digital skills, enabling them to participate in AI-enabled industries.
In tandem with digital literacy, data analysis and ethics are becoming indispensable. Many jobs now require workers to analyse data while adhering to privacy and ethical standards.
Africa’s burgeoning fintech sector exemplifies this shift, using data to provide tailored financial services for under-banked populations. Skilled workers who can interpret data responsibly are driving innovation and ensuring sustainable practices.
Critical thinking and problem-solving remain essential in an era where AI handles routine tasks. Human creativity is key to addressing infrastructure challenges or local nuances.
For instance, startups in Southeast Asia are using AI to improve logistics in areas with inadequate road networks. Workers capable of interpreting AI outputs creatively provide effective solutions to these regional issues.
Emotional intelligence (EI) enhances human interactions in technology-driven environments. In diverse developing economies, the ability to understand emotions, empathise, and build relationships is vital.
In Rwanda, community health workers employ AI diagnostic tools but rely on EI to foster patient trust and encourage acceptance of the technology.
Lastly, collaboration and communication are crucial as AI increasingly integrates into workplaces. In Zimbabwe and other developing regions, tools such as WhatsApp have evolved into platforms for business collaboration, enabling remote teamwork.
Workers, who master such tools, are better equipped to excel in the evolving world of work.
Strategies for workforce adaptation
Localised AI training programmes: Governments and organisations need to invest in training programmes designed for local contexts. For example, Google’s AI for Good initiative in Ghana teaches young professionals AI skills suited to industries such as agriculture and renewable energy. These programmes must also consider local challenges, such as limited internet access, by offering offline learning options.
AI-powered personalised learning: AI-driven education platforms can tailor learning to individual needs, making up-skilling easier even with limited resources. Kenya’s Eneza Education, which delivers lessons via SMS, shows how simple technology can overcome barriers. Expanding such platforms to include AI-focused training will help more people join the digital economy.
Encouraging entrepreneurship with AI tools: Entrepreneurship drives economic growth in developing regions. AI tools such as business analytics software or chatbots for customer service can help small businesses grow. For example, farmers in India use AI apps to predict weather and improve crop yields, turning traditional farming into tech-driven enterprises.
Promoting lifelong learning: Continuous learning is key to keeping up with rapid AI-driven changes. Governments and non-profits can provide opportunities such as online courses and workshops. South Africa’s Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator combines traditional training with digital modules, helping workers develop skills for AI-powered jobs.
Addressing job displacement concerns: Automation may replace some jobs, but up-skilling workers can create new opportunities. For example, training textile workers in Bangladesh to operate AI-powered machines helps keep jobs, while increasing productivity. Employers need to reassure workers by offering clear pathways to new roles.
Fostering public-private partnerships: Collaboration between governments, schools, and businesses is vital for building AI-ready workforces. Microsoft’s AI for Africa initiative, which provides AI education and resources through partnerships, shows how such collaborations can have wide-reaching impacts.
AI’s role in economies
AI can address critical issues in developing regions. For instance, in healthcare, AI tools such as IBM’s Watson Health are helping doctors in India make accurate diagnoses even in areas with limited medical infrastructure. In agriculture, platforms such as M-Farm in Kenya use AI to connect farmers with market prices, improving productivity and income.
As these regions embrace the fourth industrial revolution, AI integration can drive significant growth.
However, this requires strategic investments in skills, infrastructure, and ethical AI use.
Conclusion
To prepare for an AI-driven future, Zimbabwe and other developing economies must focus on building essential skills and embrace innovation.
Key skills such as AI literacy, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking are vital for individuals to succeed.
At the same time, governments and organisations need to provide accessible training, encourage lifelong learning, and create environments where workers feel supported.AI has vast potential to transform industries and improve lives in developing economies. From empowering entrepreneurs to modernising agriculture and healthcare, it can drive inclusive and sustainable development.
By aligning training with local needs and using unique regional strengths, these economies cannot only keep up with global changes but become leaders in the AI revolution.
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- Bangure is a filmmaker with a media degree and substantial experience in media production and management. He previously served as the chairperson of the National Employment Council for the Printing, Packaging, and Newspaper Industry. A dedicated enthusiast and scholar of artificial intelligence, Bangure combines his creative and technical skills to delve into innovative advancements. — info@hub-edutech.com.
