The 10th edition of the annual Productivity Awareness Week is in full swing under the theme: The AI Effect: Using Innovation to Reshape Productivity and Enhance Competitiveness.
Spearheaded and launched this week by the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) and the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project, Productivity Awareness Week aims to highlight innovations implemented in various sectors and facilitate discussions and research on their potential benefits and impacts on society.
AI (Artificial Intelligence) and its impact on productivity will be a focal point of the week.
During the launch, Lisa Florent-Montoute, Director of the NCPC, stated, “AI-powered machines and robots can perform repetitive tasks with greater efficiency and speed, thereby increasing productivity and accuracy in various industries.”
The NCPC believes integrating AI into productivity and competitiveness strategies in Saint Lucia is essential in today’s evolving technological landscape. “AI-driven solutions streamline tasks, automate processes, and unlock new insights, enabling businesses and organisations to operate with efficiency and precision,” Florent-Montoute added.
Public Service Minister Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte supported AI integration, stating, “If we hesitate to adopt AI solutions, we risk being left behind in a rapidly evolving world. AI is not about replacing human jobs; it is about augmenting human capabilities. It allows workers to focus on higher-level tasks by automating repetitive processes.”
The minister highlighted an issue facing the public service ministry: a large volume of activities covered by only a few workers.
Albert-Poyotte projected, “With the use of technology it is going to respond to the needs of our citizens in a more timely manner,” asserting that the ultimate goal is to have a more productive workforce in Saint Lucia.
The minister also stressed, “Additionally, as we adopt AI, we must ensure that we implement frameworks that safeguard privacy, guarantee security, and ensure that AI is used ethically.”
Productivity Awareness Week will continue with activities highlighting the implementation of innovative technology and AI in different parts of the island.
Other stakeholders include local schools, youth organizations, public and private sector organizations, and civil society.
