ILO webinar highlights global experiences and practical tools on leveraging human-centred AI and digital technologies to enhance SCORE Training for productivity growth and decent work.

GENEVA (ILO News) - Digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming the way small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operate, offering new opportunities to boost productivity and improve working conditions. However, they also bring with them challenges related to skills, inclusion and decent work. This was the focus of a recent webinar organized by ILO's Global Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises (SCORE). The session was attended by 71 participants, including SCORE Trainers and ILO colleagues from across the globe.

This online session explored how digital tools and AI can be integrated into training delivery and enterprise operations among SMEs in cost-effective and responsible ways, by drawing on concrete country experiences from the Philippines, China, and Vietnam.

In the Philippines, AI tools and applications have been introduced in SCORE Training to support Enterprise Improvement Teams (EIT) - comprised of workers and managers to identify key challenges and collectively address them. For example, SCORE Trainers have learned to leverage AI tools to facilitate automated data analysis, documentation, and factory layout optimization. 

Similarly, China’s SCORE Academy has successfully incorporated AI into SCORE Training delivery. Initiatives include introducing an AI-powered e-learning platform, using AI tools to support onsite training through generating meeting summaries and preparing Enterprise Improvement Plans. Notably, SCORE Academy pioneered “SCORE AI Agent”, a chatbot integrated into WeChat that provides continuous support during and after training. 

Finally, the experience from introducing AI into SCORE Training in Vietnam highlights the importance of the potential of AI in reshaping jobs rather than replacing them. Furthermore, to support SMEs to adopt AI effectively and sustainably, it is important to introduce low-cost AI tools for immediate gains while developing longer-term transformation strategies.

One of the key takeaways from the webinar is the importance of promoting human-centred AI. When applied responsibly and with attention to decent work, it help SMEs boost productivity and competitiveness.  Digital transformation can also play a key role in enhancing business resilience, improving working conditions, providing upskilling opportunities, thereby opening up new opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.