At this year’s Times Tech Summit, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall unveiled plans for a new AI Growth Lab to pilot responsible AI projects previously hamstrung by red tape. Building on the UK-US Tech Prosperity Deal announced in September, the initiative marks another key step in the UK’s AI revolution. But as these milestones drive innovation forward, our education and training systems must keep pace. Without this, we risk deepening an AI literacy gap between those who can confidently work with AI and those left behind.
AI literacy is not just about knowing how to use tools like ChatGPT or image generators – it’s about understanding how algorithms make decisions, how to interrogate machine outputs for bias and how to interpret data critically. To put our best foot forward, we must ensure young people enter the workforce equipped with the AI skills needed to succeed.
If young people are to be properly prepared, educators and policymakers must design adaptive learning experiences that evolve with the rate at which industries are adopting new technology. That means embedding AI concepts across core subjects rather than treating them as specialist electives. It also means expanding apprenticeships and qualifications to integrate digital fluency and practical AI application, so learners entering the workforce directly are on the front foot.
However, the education system alone cannot bridge this gap. The technology sector must play an active role, not simply as vendors of new tools, but as a core partner in developing a technically skilled workforce.
AI education is a shared responsibility
Tech companies, policymakers and educators must work together to co-design AI curricula that reflect how the technology is used in industry. Whether it’s integrating data ethics into business studies or teaching prompt engineering alongside coding, the private sector can provide the real-world insight needed to keep education relevant.
Big tech is already making strides to ensure an AI-literate workforce. Sam Altman recently announced plans to develop a platform that will certify 10m Americans in AI literacy by 2030. However, these qualifications mustn’t be limited to those working in big tech or living in the US. If the UK wants to keep pace with American progress in AI, we must ensure our own workforce is also trained to drive this revolution forward.
Closing the digital divide starts at the top
Business leaders have a responsibility to ensure their people aren’t left behind as technology evolves. No matter the industry, they set the tone for how AI is understood and applied. Leaders must create a culture where employees stay informed, skilled and confident using new technologies. Investing in AI tools is no longer enough; investment in learning, embedding AI understanding into everyday professional development and encouraging curiosity rather than fear of automation are critical.
A workforce unprepared for AI is not just a social concern; it’s a business risk. The World Economic Forum estimates that 60% of employees will need reskilling by 2030 to work effectively with AI. Those who act now will build resilient, innovative organisations; those who delay risk widening the divide between digital frontrunners and everyone else.
The next phase of the UK’s AI journey is about people. By investing in AI literacy today, we can empower workers, inspire students and ensure progress benefits everyone, not just a privileged few.
Daniel Sanchez-Grant is an SVP International & UK Country Director at AlphaSense
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