Work Sphere – Minister Uteem: “AI Must Protect Humanity, Not Replace It”

In a poignant gathering at The Docks Tower 2 on Monday, 28 April 2025, Minister Reza Uteem delivered a clarion call for a humane approach to the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI). This tripartite workshop, held in conjunction with World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2025, underscored a critical theme: “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation in the Workplace.”

Minister Uteem asserted that AI is no longer a distant vision but a present reality, one that must be harnessed to safeguard workers rather than supplant them.

“Artificial intelligence must serve to protect workers, not to replace them,” he declared, as he addressed an audience comprising government officials, employer representatives, and union delegates.

Together, they explored the potential of AI to enhance workplace safety while preserving employment.

AI as a Catalyst for Safety and Value

In his stirring opening address, Uteem emphasised that AI should be a catalyst for bolstering safety commitments:

“It must predict risks, prevent accidents, and create work environments that protect and value humanity.”

He acknowledged the profound transformation AI is already effecting in the world of work, urging a proactive stance in anticipating changes and enhancing digital skills so that the workforce can fully capitalise on the opportunities presented by AI and digitalisation.

Cautious Adoption Amidst Tremendous Potential

While recognising the significant efficiencies these technologies can bring, Uteem stressed the necessity of a cautious approach.

“We must integrate these innovations responsibly. The safety and well-being of employees remain paramount,” he reminded attendees.

He illustrated his point with the evolution of the banking sector, where the introduction of ATMs did not eliminate jobs but rather redirected roles towards higher-value services, particularly in customer relations.

This example, he argued, demonstrates that technological revolutions can create new opportunities rather than merely displace workers.

Warning Against Hasty Digitalisation

However, Uteem did not shy away from addressing the potential pitfalls of hasty digitalisation, warning of increased workplace stress, new health risks, and heightened job insecurity if these transformations are not properly managed.

Among the promising applications of AI, he highlighted wearable devices capable of instantly detecting signs of fatigue or stress in workers, thereby preventing potential accidents by alerting them before dangerous situations arise.

Government Policies and Training for Ethical Integration

To facilitate this transition, the government is currently formulating new policies aimed at ethically integrating AI across various sectors.

Additionally, several training and awareness programmes will be rolled out to prepare businesses and their personnel for the challenges of the digital age.

Addressing Challenges in Developing Nations

In light of the specific challenges faced by developing nations like Mauritius, particularly the exodus of tech talent, Uteem advocated for strategic partnerships between the government, private enterprises, and the academic world.

He underscored the critical need to invest in education and continuous training to prevent the adoption of advanced technologies from exacerbating social inequalities.

Expert Insights on Productivity and Well-being

The workshop benefited from the insights of numerous experts, including employer and worker representatives, as well as members of various commissions and councils under the ministry’s auspices.

Dr Pudaruth, an Associate Professor at the University of Mauritius, demonstrated how new technologies can not only enhance productivity but also transform the identification and management of workplace risks.

Meanwhile, Dr Anuja Meetoo-Appavoo addressed the psychological repercussions of poorly managed digitalisation, emphasising the necessity of human support.

A Roadmap Towards Harmonious Integration

The recommendations arising from these discussions will be meticulously analysed by the ministry to establish a coherent roadmap.

The aim is to ensure a seamless integration of AI into the Mauritian professional environment.

Through this workshop, the ministry seeks to lay the groundwork for a future where technological innovation harmoniously aligns with a steadfast commitment to the safety and dignity of all workers.

For beyond the sophisticated algorithms, it is the human being who must remain at the heart of concerns in this new professional era.

Source: Defi Media