Artificial Intelligence in the Dominican Republic: Labor risk or engine of transformation?
Engineer and technology expert, Hiddekel Morrison, has presented a deep analysis regarding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Dominican Republic. During his participation in the RD Debate forum, under the theme “Present and future of AI,” the specialist highlighted that, far from being just a threat to employment, this technology represents a strategic opportunity to modernize the national economy, provided there is proper adaptation.
Morrison pointed out that key sectors for the country, such as call centers, tourism, and various service areas, are in a position of high exposure to automation. However, he emphasized that the final outcome will depend on the responsiveness of the public and private sectors.
I understand that the utilization will depend on the approach. There are undoubtedly great opportunities.
Hiddekel Morrison
The challenge of professional retraining
To mitigate the negative effects of automation, the expert advocated for the implementation of job retraining programs. According to Morrison, training should not be generic, but focused on the specific needs of workers whose jobs are at greatest risk, allowing them to acquire new skills for emerging roles.
- Education: AI could function as a virtual tutor, helping to close the learning gaps that currently affect the country’s performance in international tests such as PISA.
- Health: There is enormous potential in early diagnosis, especially in cancer treatment, where the ability to process large volumes of genomic and clinical data will mark a turning point.
Demystifying the fear of technology
Faced with the global debate over whether AI could pose an existential threat to humanity, Morrison called for caution. He clarified that, at present, technological systems lack consciousness and free will; they are, fundamentally, tools directed by human architectures and data.
Likewise, he warned about the economic interests behind technological regulation. The expert alerted about “regulatory capture,” a phenomenon where large corporations could influence laws to curb competition and protect their own interests under the guise of security.
In conclusion, the future of artificial intelligence in the Dominican Republic depends on a proactive vision. Morrison insists that the country must stop viewing AI as a foreign phenomenon and begin to integrate this technology into strategic areas, ensuring that digital development translates into social and economic progress for all productive sectors.
