The Magazine of the Singapore Computer Society
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21
SCS Scores New Milestones in AI Ethics and Governance
T
he use of AI in our everyday lives has brought about great benefits for businesses, communities and the society at large. Yet its power has also sparked concerns about its biases and potential exploitation by unethical businesses and individuals. For that reason, SCS actively takes the lead to drive advocacy for ethical AI in Singapore. EDUCATING YOUTHS ON AI ETHICS WITH HUMAN CENTRICITY Recognising the importance of an AI Ethics education to the development of a talent pipeline for an ethical AI ecosystem in Singapore, SCS collaborated with five local polytechnics and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) to infuse AI ethics with human centricity into the existing AI Literacy programme, across all disciplines. Commencing in April 2022, the programme is expected to equip 35,000 students with a good foundational understanding of AI Ethics issues each year. CERTIFICATION IN AI ETHICS & GOVERNANCE (ASSOCIATE LEVEL) Another new collaboration with the five polytechnics and ITE will see Certification in AI Ethics & Governance (Associate Level) be made available to tertiary
students. This joint certification offers a pathway for students to progress to the higher certification at the Professional level, be equipped with relevant tech skills, and gain access to more career opportunities. The certification will be introduced to over 20 diplomas, and targets to award at least 2,000 students with the Associate Level joint certification every year, beginning April 2022. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between SCS and the institutions to formalise this collaboration. CERTIFICATION IN AI ETHICS & GOVERNANCE (PROFESSIONAL LEVEL) The AI Ethics & Governance certification course – jointly organised by SCS and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) – is a recognised standard for AI Ethics & Governance competence. This certification course has drawn participation from leaders and subject matter experts in AI deployment and implementation in critical industries such as banking, transport, healthcare, etc., with about 120 professionals trained and 80 professionals certified to date. The 5th intake is currently open for registration.
GOVERNANCE FOR AI ETHICS CERTIFICATION AND ACCREDITATION SCS had established two high level independent boards – Evaluation Board and Appeals Board – bringing together leaders, policymakers and experts to ensure proper governance of the certification and accreditation framework. The Appeals Board, chaired by Senior Counsel VK Rajah, Former Attorney-General & Judge of Appeal, together with the Evaluation Board, chaired by SCS President Dr Chong Yoke Sin, will provide accountability, independence and objectivity in analysis and decision-making for AI Ethics and Governance certifications and accreditation of trainers. ADVOCACY IN AI ETHICS Since October 2020 when SCS initiated the AI Ethics Movement, more than 130 organisations have pledged their support and the number continues to increase steadily. The growing bench of organisations joining the movement augurs well for the development of a healthy, robust and ethical AI ecosystem.
SCS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with five polytechnics and ITE on 15 October 2021 at the Tech3 Forum graced by Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Industry.
