The EU AI Act is set to revolutionize how organizations engage with artificial intelligence (AI). Central to this legislation is Article 4, which imposes a legal obligation on organizations to ensure a sufficient level of AI literacy among their staff and other relevant individuals. This requirement underscores the importance of equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively and responsibly work with AI systems.

What is Article 4 of the EU AI Act?

Article 4 mandates that providers and deployers of AI systems must take appropriate measures to ensure their staff and other individuals dealing with AI systems on their behalf possess a sufficient level of AI literacy. This includes considering their technical knowledge, experience, education, and the context in which the AI systems are used [1]. The goal is to foster a deep understanding of AI technologies, ensuring that all personnel are well-informed about the opportunities and risks associated with AI.

Who is Affected?

The reach of this mandate is extensive. Not only does it apply to organizations within the EU, but it also impacts non-EU entities that place AI systems and models on the EU market. This global applicability highlights the EU’s commitment to establishing a robust framework for AI governance, promoting responsible and ethical AI deployment worldwide [1].

Importance of AI Literacy

AI literacy encompasses the skills, knowledge, and understanding needed to make informed decisions about AI systems. This includes:

Technical Proficiency: Understanding the functionality, capabilities, and limitations of AI systems.

Ethical Awareness: Recognizing the ethical implications of AI, including issues related to transparency, accountability, privacy, and algorithmic bias.

Contextual Understanding: Comprehending the specific applications of AI within the organization’s operational context and its impact on various stakeholders.

By ensuring a high level of AI literacy, organizations can better navigate the complexities of AI deployment, mitigating potential risks and enhancing the benefits of AI technologies.

Meeting the AI Literacy Requirement

To comply with Article 4, organizations need effective AI training programs that address both the technical and ethical dimensions of AI. Verdas AI offers the IEEE CertifAIEd™ Assessor Training, a comprehensive program designed to elevate your AI ethics expertise.

Our training covers key areas such as Ethical Transparency, Ethical Privacy, Ethical Accountability, and Ethical Algorithmic Bias. Participants will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to audit AI systems from an ethics perspective, ensuring compliance with the new regulations while fostering a culture of responsible AI use [2].

Why Choose IEEE CertifAIEd™ Training?

Expert-Led Workshops: Engage with AI ethics experts through deep-dive workshops.

Comprehensive Coverage: Learn about AI ethics principles, the IEEE certification process, and how to apply these in real-world scenarios.

Certification: Become an IEEE CertifAIEd™ Authorized Assessor, recognized for your expertise in AI ethics.

Conclusion

As organizations prepare for the enforcement of the EU AI Act, it is essential to focus on ensuring compliance with Article 4. By investing in AI literacy and training, businesses can not only meet regulatory requirements but also leverage AI technologies more effectively and responsibly.

For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, our IEEE CertifAIEd™ Assessor Training offers a path to becoming proficient in AI ethics, ready to navigate the evolving landscape of AI with confidence.

Learn more about our training and how it can help your organization meet the new AI literacy requirements. Join us in fostering a future where AI is used responsibly and ethically.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving at an unprecedented pace, reshaping various aspects of our lives and society. With its rapid growth, there is a crucial need for robust regulations and policies to harness its potential while mitigating risks. Recent initiatives such as the US AI Roadmap, EDPS guidelines on generative AI, and the UK House of Commons’ AI governance report highlight the global efforts to establish comprehensive frameworks for AI governance. 

US AI Roadmap: A Bipartisan Approach to AI Governance

The US AI Roadmap, developed by a bipartisan group of senators, outlines critical policy priorities to ensure the United States maintains its leadership in AI innovation while addressing associated risks. Key priorities include increasing funding for AI research and development, enforcing existing AI laws, and addressing issues such as deepfakes and job displacement. The roadmap emphasizes a balanced approach that encourages innovation while safeguarding national security and ethical standards [1].

This comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to maintaining global competitiveness and ensuring that AI benefits are widely distributed across society. The roadmap’s eight policy priorities create a framework for proactive AI governance, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges.

EDPS Guidelines on Generative AI: Protecting Personal Data

In the European Union, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has issued guidelines on generative AI to help EU institutions comply with data protection regulations. These guidelines focus on core data protection principles and provide concrete examples to anticipate risks and challenges posed by generative AI systems. The EDPS emphasizes the importance of conducting data protection impact assessments and ensuring transparency and accountability in AI applications [2].

Wojciech Wiewiórowski, the EDPS, highlighted that these guidelines are a first step towards more extensive recommendations, aiming to protect individuals’ personal information and privacy in the evolving AI landscape. The guidelines are designed to be practical, helping EU institutions navigate the complexities of generative AI while complying with Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 [3]. 

UK House of Commons AI Governance Report: Addressing AI’s Twelve Challenges

The UK House of Commons’ Science, Innovation and Technology Committee has published a comprehensive report on AI governance. This report revisits the Twelve Challenges of AI Governance identified in their interim report, suggesting how policymakers might address these issues. The report emphasizes the need for a principles-based approach, focusing on safety, transparency, fairness, accountability, and contestability [4].

A significant challenge highlighted is the ‘black box’ nature of some AI models, where the decision-making process is not transparent. The report calls for rigorous testing of AI outputs to assess their reliability and mitigate potential biases. Additionally, it underscores the importance of public trust in AI technologies and the need for adequate resources for regulators to effectively oversee AI developments [5].

Why IEEE CertifAIEd™ Assessor Training is Essential

In light of these significant regulatory developments, understanding and implementing ethical principles in AI is crucial. The IEEE CertifAIEd™ Assessor Training offers a comprehensive approach to AI ethics, covering essential topics such as ethical transparency, privacy, accountability, and algorithmic bias. This course is designed for professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge of social responsibility in autonomous intelligent systems and become authorized assessors [6].

Engaging with a community of AI ethics experts through the IEEE CertifAIEd™ Assessor Training enables participants to stay informed about the latest developments in AI regulation and policy. By gaining expertise in AI ethics and governance, professionals can contribute to the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, ensuring they align with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

Upcoming IEEE CertifAIEd™ Training Sessions

To help professionals stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field, Verdas AI is offering upcoming training sessions. These sessions provide an opportunity to engage with leading experts in AI ethics and become well-versed in the latest regulatory and policy developments. The next training sessions are scheduled for July and August.

In today’s dynamic business landscape, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer optional—it’s essential. Despite its critical role, many companies struggle with implementing AI effectively, primarily due to a shortage of qualified talent. This gap presents a significant challenge, but the AI Wayfinder program offers a promising solution.

Navigating the AI Talent Shortage

The rise of AI technologies has created a pressing demand for skilled professionals who can harness its potential. However, finding individuals who possess both the technical know-how and the strategic insight to drive AI projects is a significant hurdle. This shortage not only hampers innovation but also leaves many businesses unable to fully realize the benefits of AI.

Introducing the AI Wayfinder Program

The AI Wayfinder program, a collaboration between CompuSafe Data Systems AG and Verdas AI, is designed to address this talent gap. This 18-month initiative is more than just a training course—it’s a comprehensive development program that transforms participants into AI experts ready to make a significant impact.

Tailored Training for Future AI Leaders

One of the standout features of the AI Wayfinder program is its customized training approach. Participants receive instruction from internationally renowned AI experts, covering critical areas such as AI strategy development, regulatory compliance, and technical skills including machine learning (ML) and MLOps. This training is meticulously designed to meet the specific needs of participating companies, ensuring that the skills acquired are immediately applicable.

Practical Experience and Real-World Application

The program’s dual structure is particularly effective. Participants are employed by CompuSafe and embedded directly into client projects. This hands-on experience allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring a seamless transition from learning to practice. Companies benefit from immediate contributions to their AI initiatives while participants gain invaluable practical experience.

Comprehensive Skill Development

Beyond technical expertise, the AI Wayfinder program places a strong emphasis on soft skills development. Participants are trained in areas such as virtual team management, design thinking, personal development, and change management. These skills are crucial for leading AI projects and driving organizational change. The holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-rounded professionals equipped to handle the multifaceted challenges of AI implementation.

Continuous Support and Mentorship

Throughout the 18 months, participants and client teams receive continuous support from a dedicated network of trainers, coaches, and mentors. This support system ensures that both the individuals and the organizations involved can maximize the benefits of the program. The mentorship helps participants stay abreast of the latest developments in AI, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Benefits for Businesses and Individuals

The AI Wayfinder program offers substantial benefits for both companies and participants. Businesses gain access to a pool of highly trained AI professionals who can drive innovation and optimize operations. The immediate integration of participants into projects ensures that companies start seeing the benefits right away.

For individuals, the program is a gateway to a rewarding career in AI. It provides them with the skills and experience needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field. The comprehensive training and real-world application equip participants to become leaders and change-makers in their respective organizations.

Conclusion

The AI Wayfinder program is a strategic response to the growing AI talent gap. By investing in this program, companies can secure the expertise they need to stay competitive and innovative. For participants, it’s an opportunity to advance their careers and become pivotal players in the AI landscape.

Embrace the future of AI with the AI Wayfinder program. Transform your workforce and lead the charge in AI innovation. For more information and to join the program, visit our website or contact us directly.

In December 2023, following two years of investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), TESLA recalled over 2 million vehicles on U.S. roads. 

Covering nearly all their vehicles, the largest-ever TESLA recall occurred after NHTSA cited safety concerns over TESLA’s autopilot driver-assistance system. Where it was found to be insufficient in preventing driver abuse and could increase the risk of a crash [1]. Undoubtedly, the costs for such recall – both monetary and reputational – are monumental. And despite TESLA’s disagreement to NHTSA’s analysis, the NHTSA had found (among many) that “drivers are not always paying attention when the autopilot system is on”.

This example, one of many, demonstrates the importance of prioritizing and supporting Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics as part of AI adoption or development plans for businesses. Against the background of “unforeseen” AI technology misuse, perhaps in 2024, businesses would start to seriously reconsider the value of having a qualified AI Ethics team and framework to consult prior to their AI deployment.

Commonly placed under “ex-ante” approach to AI Ethics assessment, a qualified AI Ethics team and framework could assist businesses in identifying human misuses before their AI deployment. Especially during the designing and integration stage. In the process, help businesses to reduce possibilities of unnecessary business expenditures such as recalling, reputational damage, compliance risks, and lawsuits.

Additionally, human “misuse” of AI is not exclusive to TESLA. According to OECD AI Incidents Monitor (AIM), between October 2023 to December 2023, there were about 1763 incidents or article coverage of events related to AI [2].

One of the most recent editions to OECD AIM’s is on a ruling by the UK Supreme Court that rejected AI output as “patent worthy”. A ruling adjudicated after a US computer scientist attempted to profit from patenting AI output [3]. Albeit, this ruling is not necessarily considered as a “high-profile” incident, it is nonetheless a ruling that extends the theme of unforeseen misuse of AI by humans.

Unfortunately, this theme has not been appropriately addressed by businesses when we reflect decisions made by tech-giants in disbanding, devaluing, or completely dismissing their AI Ethics team and leadership over the past few years [4]–[6]

Considering these AI related incidents, it is perhaps possible in 2024, AI Ethics in its entirety could be “revalued” in similar vein of importance with all other AI developments and achievements. As AI becomes more ubiquitous in parallel with upcoming AI regulations, and with growing customer and market demand for ethical AI, it is argued here that businesses will have a tough road ahead if they believe AI Ethics as merely a philosophical discipline without any bearing on business profitability.

Ahmad Firdaus – AI Ethicist at Verdas AI

1] David Shepardson, ‘Tesla recalls nearly all vehicles on US roads over lack of Autopilot safeguards’, Reuters, December 14 20223. [Online]. Available: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-update-software-autopilot-control-issue-2-mln-vehicles-nhtsa-2023-12-13/

[2] ‘OECD AI Incidents Monitor (AIM) October 2023 – December 2023’. OECD, Dec. 28, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://oecd.ai/en/incidents?search_terms=%5B%5D&and_condition=false&from_date=2023-10-01&to_date=2023-12-28&properties_config=%7B%22principles%22:%5B%5D,%22industries%22:%5B%5D,%22harm_types%22:%5B%5D,%22harm_levels%22:%5B%5D,%22harmed_entities%22:%5B%5D%7D&only_threats=false&order_by=date&num_results=20

[3] ‘AI cannot be patent “inventor”, UK Supreme Court rules in landmark case | Law-Order’, OECD, Dec. 2023. [Online]. Available: https://oecd.ai/en/incidents/58264

[4] Wes Davis, ‘Meta disbanded its Responsible AI team’, The Verge, Nov. 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/meta-disbanded-its-responsible-ai-team/ar-AA1k9MVq

[5] Cristina Criddle and Madhumita Murgia, ‘Big tech companies cut AI ethics staff, raising safety concerns’, Financial Times, Mar. 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.ft.com/content/26372287-6fb3-457b-9e9c-f722027f36b3

[6] Rachel Metz, ‘Google is trying to end the controversy over its Ethical AI team. It’s not going well’, CNN, Feb. 2021. [Online]. Available: https://edition.cnn.com/2021/02/19/tech/google-ai-ethics-investigation/index.html