By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): Artificial intelligence could make Belize’s economy US$48 million larger within ten years, but the country has work to do to get its young people ready, according to a new study.
The Ayre Index, launched at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, ranks Belize 35th out of 56 Commonwealth countries for youth AI readiness. Belize scored 42.8 out of 100, below the study’s readiness benchmark of 53. Only 15 Commonwealth countries reached that level.
The research, by the Ayre Think Tank founded by Antiguan Canadian entrepreneur Calvin Ayre, found strong internet access among young Belizeans. About 92.2% reported using the internet, 82.4% own a mobile phone and 4G coverage reaches 87% of the population. Belize scored 8 out of 10 for meaningful access.
But the picture changes when it comes to education and jobs. Belize scored just 2 out of 10 for education and training, with computing not recorded as part of the curriculum measure used. The study also found 22.5% of young people are not in employment, education or training.
Using International Monetary Fund scenarios, researchers estimate AI could lift Belize’s GDP by US$48 million after ten years. The conservative estimate is US$23 million, while the optimistic case reaches US$73 million.
Belize has about 112,000 young people aged 15 to 29.
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By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): Artificial intelligence could make Belize’s economy US$48 million larger within ten years, but the country has work to do to get its young people ready, according to a new study. The Ayre Index, launched at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, ranks Belize 35th out
The post AI could add US$48 million to Belize’s economy, study finds appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.