Good morning 👋
Growing up in the Swansea valleys, I’ve seen the talent and sheer potential that exists throughout this beautiful country I call home. So, today, I want to do something a bit different for you all, taking a look at AI and the future of Wales.
What exactly do I mean by this? Well, let me explain…
Hello and Welcome to Sweeney’s Blogs!
I’ve always been fascinated by technology – it’s why I went to the University of Reading to study Management with Information Technology for my undergraduate degree. I’m personally very interested in how technology can be integrated into our lives to make a positive difference to us as people.
If we look at the last five years alone, the tech scene has come such a long way, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon 🤯
Think of the medical procedures that were once a dream, but are now increasingly becoming a reality. The development of mobile phones, from chunky bricks early in the 2000s, to the limitless potential that they possess nowadays, is all pretty mad.
This isn’t even touching on the advancements in emerging technology like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), quantum computing and more. Don’t worry, I’m not going to go too tech-heavy in this blog; however, I feel like you get my point. Technology has come a long way, and now it’s becoming more closely brought into our lives, we need to be able to understand its applications.
AI has been a key driver of this, redefining so many aspects of our lives. If you need a little reminder about what we mean by AI, be sure to check out my “What is AI?” blog that I wrote back in 2023. It’s by no means an exhaustive intro, but it does lay the foundation for the topic.
With all of this in mind, last November, Llywodraeth Cymru, or the Welsh Government, released AI Cymru – its plan for the future of our country.
However, my main caveat about plans and strategies like this is that they sound good in principle; however, what does this mean practically for the people and businesses around Wales? 🧐
We’re already starting to see this plan take shape, with major investment announced, including plans for a new AI Growth Zone in South Wales (in Bridgend, specifically), expected to create thousands of jobs, right around the corner from where I live. Business Wales wrote an article about this in more depth back in November.
It’s an exciting time, but it also raises important questions around skills, accessibility and ensuring opportunities are created for all. I’ve recently written an article on my LinkedIn, exploring what AI Cymru is and what it could mean for the future of Wales.
Be sure to check it out and let me know what you think 😊
I’m going to do more pieces like this going forward. Let me know if there are any areas you’d like to see me take a look at.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you have a lovely day!
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