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RIYADH: Technology has fundamentally redefined the relationship between humans and work over the past two decades, presenting both immense opportunities and unprecedented challenges, Ahmad Al-Yamani, CEO of Takamol, told Arab News.

Al-Yamani said: “Technology should complement our intelligence, not replace it,” emphasizing the urgency of preparing the workforce for this transformation.

He cited research from the Global Labor Market Conference, which found that employees worried that technological advances were disrupting the job market: “More than 50 percent of workers surveyed across 14 countries fear their skills could become partially or fully obsolete within the next five years.”

For Saudi workers, 23 percent expressed concerns that computers and robots might replace their jobs. However, Al-Yamani claimed that this evolution provided a pivotal opportunity to adapt and innovate alongside advanced technologies.

He spoke about how the use of technology was spreading and “taking over various aspects of our lives.”

Al-Yamani called for a comprehensive overhaul of skills and education systems, warning that the current workforce was ill-prepared for the pace of technological change.

“We must reprioritize education to prepare for an economy that will eventually no longer exist,” he said, advocating for proactive policies to prevent economic instability and ensure inclusivity.

The CEO highlighted the pressing need to embrace the discomfort of change brought about by rapid technological advancement, while posing a critical question: “Are we going to allow AI to amplify inequality, or will we utilize it to level the playing field?”

Al-Yamani said that the answer depended on the boldness of actions taken today: “Those who adapt will ultimately thrive.”

On the rise of generative AI, he said that this technology had shifted from being a supportive tool to becoming a creator. “With generative AI, machines are producing works such as movies, books and paintings that feel almost human.”

Despite AI’s capabilities, Al-Yamani stressed the irreplaceable value of genuine human connection.

“We need to invest in relationships and a healthier, more interactive society,” he said, suggesting initiatives such as reducing the work week to four days to strengthen social bonds.

He warned: “Without strong social connections, we risk isolation, subordination to machines and losing what truly makes life meaningful.”

Al-Yamani addressed the uncertainty surrounding the pace of AI’s transformation: “AI might reshape everything in five years, or several decades, we aren’t exactly sure.” Despite this unpredictability, he emphasized a clear path forward; investing in humanity.

Looking ahead, Al-Yamani emphasized the importance of collaboration among global labor stakeholders to address these challenges. Platforms such as the GLMC provided critical spaces where governments, employers and workers could align their priorities.

“Workers want fair opportunities and security, governments seek stability, and businesses strive for innovation and growth. These priorities are interconnected,” he said, calling for unified efforts to craft meaningful solutions.

Al-Yamani said that in a time of rapid technological change, “collaboration remains our most powerful tool to secure a better, more equitable future.”