The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, through its Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, has embarked on a comprehensive national initiative to establish responsible artificial intelligence governance. In collaboration with UNESCO and the UNDP, the nation is systematically evaluating its preparedness for AI integration across critical sectors.
This strategic partnership commenced with the November 26 launch of the UNDP’s AI Landscape Assessment (AILA), which provides a practical framework for identifying opportunities and challenges in AI adoption. The current phase involves implementing UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), initiated through a multi-stakeholder survey distributed to leaders across public and private sectors, academia, civil society, and youth organizations.
The assessment examines five crucial dimensions: legal and regulatory frameworks; technological infrastructure; societal and cultural implications; scientific and educational capabilities; and economic impacts. Data collected will directly inform national AI policy development, ensuring future strategies prioritize ethical considerations, human rights, inclusion, and transparency.
From January 19-23, sector-based consultation sessions will allow stakeholders to validate preliminary findings and propose sector-specific actions. The process will culminate in a national Validation Workshop on February 27 at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, convening government officials, researchers, industry experts, and key stakeholders to examine results and establish clear implementation roadmaps.
Minister Dominic Smith’s ministry emphasized that these coordinated efforts demonstrate Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to harnessing AI innovation while safeguarding citizens’ rights and privacy, ultimately aiming to deliver sustainable benefits for national development.