Landmark partnership to build national AI ecosystem

Zindi, a global AI community platform, has announced a year-long partnership with GovTech Barbados, part of the Ministry of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology, to establish and grow a vibrant AI ecosystem in Barbados. 

It will be focused on nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and unlocking new job opportunities in the AI sector for Barbadians.

The initiative will include a series of AI challenges, community-building activities, and educational events, designed to equip Barbadians with world-class AI skills and knowledge. Additionally, the programme will focus on creating pathways for employment in the rapidly growing fields of data science and artificial intelligence.

The project will launch with a local AI hackathon on April 26 at the University of the West Indies, bringing together government officials, academic leaders, industry experts, and aspiring AI practitioners for a day of networking, hands-on learning, and professional development.

Minister of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology, Senator Jonathan Reid, highlighted the importance of this initiative.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming economies worldwide, and Barbados must be at the forefront of this revolution,” he said. “Our partnership with Zindi is a strategic step toward equipping our young people with the skills and opportunities needed to drive innovation and economic growth in Barbados. By fostering a strong AI ecosystem, we are not only preparing Barbadians for the jobs of the future but also positioning our nation as a leader in technology across the Caribbean and worldwide.”

CEO of GovTech Barbados, Mark Boyce, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: “To benefit from the AI revolution, Barbadians will need the skills to compete globally. Our partnership with Zindi represents a big step towards building a sustainable AI ecosystem in Barbados that will create opportunities for our people and help position us as a regional leader in technology.”

CEO of Zindi, Celina Lee, echoed this sentiment.

“We are thrilled to partner with GovTech Barbados and the ministry to expand the reach and impact of AI across the Caribbean,” she said. “Barbados has some amazing young talent and immense potential. Through this partnership, we aim to empower young people in the country with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the global digital economy.” (PR)