In an effort to make AI job opportunities more accessible, Google.org has granted $1 million to the non-profit Karya. This funding is intended to democratize the AI job market by bringing AI-enabled economic opportunities to underserved communities worldwide, offering tasks like data annotation and language-based AI training. The primary goal of this initiative is to assist tens of thousands of individuals in accessing digital tasks related to artificial intelligence, aiming to bridge the gap for people in low-income regions to participate in the AI job market.
Karya, the recipient of the grant, will utilize the funding to design a skilling pathway that combines a research-backed curriculum with practical learning experiences. This approach is tailored to ensure that AI job opportunities are within reach for individuals with limited digital skills, aligning with India's vision of developing a workforce ready for AI advancements. To enhance accessibility, the program's materials will be translated into 10 major Indic languages, making it easier for a broader audience to benefit from the AI training provided.
In addition to the educational aspect, Karya will employ generative AI technology to create a multilingual chatbot to support individuals utilizing their digital work platform. This interactive feature is designed to offer real-time assistance to workers in navigating digital tasks in multiple languages, addressing specific local and regional requirements. Google.org's Head of AI for Social Good, Alex Diaz, emphasized the importance of ensuring that AI opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, highlighting the significance of supporting Karya's mission in expanding AI opportunities for marginalized communities.