Keynote – Brad Smith
Summary
Smith framed AI as the “new electricity”, essential for bridging the economic divide between the Global North and South. He highlighted Microsoft’s $50 bn investment plan to bring AI infrastructure (data centers, compute, connectivity) to the Global South, with India as a primary focus.
Three strategic pillars were outlined:
- Infrastructure – Building affordable compute capacity, power, and connectivity.
- Skilling – Initiatives like Microsoft Elevate to train teachers and workers, ensuring the workforce can harness AI.
- Localized AI solutions – Developing AI models in native languages, tackling sector‑specific challenges (agriculture, health, education).
Smith warned that AI will reshape jobs; he advocated for human‑in‑the‑loop design, emphasizing that technology should augment rather than replace human agency. He called for annual measurable progress across AI‑related goals and stressed the importance of public‑private partnerships for responsible AI rollout.
Key Takeaways
- AI as a development catalyst: Similar to electricity, AI can drive economic equality.
- $50 bn commitment: Microsoft will invest heavily in AI infrastructure for the Global South, especially India.
- Skill development: Programs like Microsoft Elevate will train educators and workers to use AI responsibly.
- Localization: AI must support local languages and address region‑specific problems.
- Human‑centered AI: Emphasize augmentation, not replacement, and ensure transparent, accountable systems.