Government to Harness Artificial Intelligence for Labour Force Transformation and Economic Growth
Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a strategic driver of labour force transformation, productivity, and economic growth.
Speaking at the Amber Group’s 10th Anniversary Gala and AI Robotics Showcase last Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the Prime Minister emphasized that the integration of AI technology in Jamaica’s development strategy is intended to enhance human capability, not replace it.
“The solution is not to hide from technology or fear it,” Prime Minister Holness said. “The solution is to use technology to increase the level of training and skills in our society so that our people can take on higher-order tasks that bring higher-order pay.”
The Prime Minister underscored that the Government’s focus is on leveraging AI to improve national productivity and competitiveness, noting that the global shift toward automation and advanced technologies presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Jamaica.
“AI is an advantage for us if we embrace it and use it in the right way, not as a displacement of labour, but to ensure our labour force gets the training and experience to take on higher-skilled, more sophisticated tasks that will grow our economy,” the Prime Minister explained.
Prime Minister Dr. Holness noted that the establishment of a National AI Laboratory at the University of Technology, Jamaica, forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to prepare Jamaicans for the evolving world of work and innovation. He added that similar facilities should eventually be introduced across the island to expose students to AI from an early stage.
“We need AI labs not just at UTech, but across the country, even in our primary schools, so that our children can become native to AI,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Holness commended Amber Group Founder, Ambassador Dushyant Savadia, for his continued partnership with the Government in advancing Jamaica’s digital transformation. Through initiatives like the Amber HEART Academy, hundreds of young Jamaicans have been trained in coding and software development, laying the groundwork for the country’s growing digital economy.
“Because of initiatives like the Amber HEART Academy, Jamaica now has a cadre of coders forming the foundation of our digital society and industry,” the Prime Minister added.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the responsible integration of technology is central to Jamaica’s long-term development agenda, which requires deliberate action and visionary leadership.
“The integration of technology does not happen automatically. It requires champions, people who seek out the technology, demystify it, train others, and make the investments. That is how we will achieve our development vision,” Dr. Holness said.
In the meantime, Prime Minister Holness noted that the Government’s continued investment in digital infrastructure, education, and innovation will ensure that Jamaica remains competitive, inclusive, and future-ready in the era of Artificial Intelligence.