Crucial to adapt to new technology

IT IS WELL KNOWN and, by now, should be widely accepted that we are living in an era driven by rapid technological advancement. We have reached a pivotal point where fearing technology is no longer an option. Instead, we must approach it with caution, invest in learning as much as we can, and undertake our use with responsibility if we are to keep pace with the rest of the world.

Barbados has successfully maintained regional and international competitiveness in several sectors, including but not limited to education, climate change, and healthcare. We must ensure that failure to adapt to emerging technologies does not become our downfall.

In fact, it should be incumbent on all Barbadians to be inspired to excel in technology considering the defining legacy bestowed us through Alan Emtage, the creator of the first Internet platform, Archie.

Many people perceive technology and artificial intelligence (AI) as job killers and tools poised to replace human effort altogether. However, the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 offers a more nuanced and optimistic perspective. While it is true that millions of jobs worldwide may be displaced by 2030 due to automation, the report also predicts the creation of millions more. Rather than a threat to daily life, technology is presented as a catalyst for transformation and evolution.

As with the fears when motor cars were introduced, TV was predicted to kill radio, automation eliminate production workers and so on at every disruption with something truly innovative, the prediction of doom and gloom around AI and other emerging technology will not be realised, certainly not as currently framed. The challenge with AI as with social media, is how to edit ourselves and avoid the dangers while benefiting from the incredible applications of this new wave of marching technology in areas like teaching and medicine.

So, what does this mean for us here in Barbados? It means capitalising on the natural affinity of even the smallest child whose ability to navigate cell phones and tablets, and dexterity with gaming, to develop learning and citizens with world class capabilities in robotics, AI and the associated applications.

It was, therefore, exciting to learn of Chad Blackman’s launch of a technology hub aimed at providing youth in his prospective constituency St James North with digital training.

This demonstrates a recognition of embracing technological change from an early age.

We are also fortunate to live in a country where the government offers numerous opportunities which are often free of charge for learning, growth, and adaptation to new technologies. These efforts not only position us to thrive locally but compete globally.

Take, for example, the wide array of free courses available through the National Training Initiative – many of which are technology-focused and accessible from the comfort of our homes.

Technological information

Government’s reintroduction of free tertiary education, paired with targeted support for master’s degrees in forward-thinking fields such as Business Analytics and E-Governance, reflects a deliberate strategy to steer the country in the direction of technological innovation. In fact, I am proud to say that I have benefited from the master’s in E-Governance since the introduction of it.

Further support is available through the Student Revolving Loan Fund, which provides financing and scholarships for courses in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. Known for being student-focused, the fund offers a grace period after graduation before repayment begins. This kind of support underscores why young people should capitalise on these opportunities especially as technology rapidly reshapes the world with an eventual impact on the employment landscape in Barbados.

A vivid example of why openness to technology is vital was seen during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when almost everyone was forced to shift online. Healthcare professionals, including general practitioners, began conducting virtual consultations, quickly adapting to assess patients remotely. Telemedicine is now a major and growing sector in health care; in large countries with remote areas to service, a game changer.

Similarly, Barbados’ education system saw teachers and students transition to virtual classrooms.

Educators who were once hesitant about technology had to learn to use platforms like Zoom and Google Classroom to avoid disadvantaging students.

And it is not just education and healthcare but sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, and logistics are all being transformed by digital tools. Government’s proactive initiatives are thus both timely and essential, equipping us to adapt swiftly under any circumstance.

Jobs of tomorrow

The Future of Jobs Report

highlights both declining roles and emerging “jobs of tomorrow.” Occupations most vulnerable to automation include cashiers, bank tellers, and data entry clerks, and even some graphic design roles. Barbados has already seen this shift, with increased ATM use and certain banks imposing fees for in-person teller services to promote self-service.

Sagicor Bank stands as a prime example of this evolution as it operates as a fully digital bank, appealing to young people by allowing account creation within minutes through a mobile app.

Yet, the need for human oversight remains. Managers and operational staff are still essential to ensure smooth backend operations, proving that technology complements rather than completely replaces human input.

This technological rise has also sparked broader conversations about remote work versus traditional office setups and its use in the classrooms. This is a work in progress; obviously it will be better applied to some operations than others. Tech in schools definitely has benefits, especially for those with learning challenges. But the pushback against cell phones in schools has started in earnest and there are concerns being expressed around numeracy and literacy about the use of AI and its impact on logical thinking. These are areas government and businesses will have to navigate.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 is not just a warning; it is a call to action. For sure, AI and the tech march will only be heightened in the future. More initiatives such as the robotics camp by our own Professor Cardinal Warde and that of Chad Blackman are needed.

Barbados and its youth are in a strong position, supported by ample opportunities for upskilling, many of which are free or financially accessible. All that remains is for us to show up and commit to the work ahead.

Tyrell Giles is a social worker. Email tyrellbgiles1@gmail.com