AI for Sustainable Development in the Belt and Road Countries - Need for Capacity Building

All United Nations member countries are striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with information and communication technologies (ICTs) playing a crucial role in accelerating the progress. However, there is a significant disparity in technological capacities between the least developed, developing, and developed nations. Leading countries maintain dominance in these technologies, creating a digital divide that redefines richness and poverty. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by China in 2013, offers a beacon of hope for developing nations. Over the past decade, China has introduced the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilizations Initiative (GCI) under BRI, benefiting many developing countries. Despite these advancements, many BRI member countries lack the capacity to fully utilize these technologies and maintain the infrastructure so developed by China. There is an urgent need for education and capacity building to ensure these nations can leverage AI and ICTs for sustainable development. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education by offering personalized learning experiences, optimizing administrative processes, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. AI-powered educational tools can adapt to individual student needs, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes. However, transitioning from traditional to technology-driven education systems requires robust capacity-building efforts to equip educators and institutions with the necessary skills and knowledge. Collaboration between governments, academia, industry, and civil society is essential for driving innovation and integrating AI responsibly and inclusively in education. This paper highlights the need for capacity building, particularly for students at all educational levels, to prepare them for future challenges and to achieve the SDGs through AI and technology-driven education.