ITU160 Partner submission: Kyrgyz Republic

Artificial intelligence strategies to make the world a better place

Submitted by:

By Manas Okonov, Head of Department, Communications Networks and Switching Systems, and A. A. Sagymbev, Department Professor, Communications Networks and Switching Systems, Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University, Kyrgyz Republic

ITU’s 160th anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on how national governments can use artificial intelligence (AI) to make the world a better place.

Where AI excels

Precision healthcare 
Artificial intelligence is remarkable in healthcare. Modern algorithms assist doctors in diagnosing cancer, cardiovascular pathologies and other complex diseases. AI improves medical data analysis, accelerating and improving diagnoses with personalized treatment plans. AI-powered surgical robots operate with precision unattainable by human hands. AI-supported telemedicine brings medical care to remote areas. Real-time data analysis for infectious disease outbreaks helps plan resources and prevent crises. 

Personalized learning 
AI is changing both teaching and learning in fundamental ways. Personalized education plans adjust for knowledge level, learning speed and interests. Educators use AI tools to analyze student performance and to extend access through virtual classrooms and online learning platforms. Moreover, AI facilitates new disciplines such as programming and robotics, a foundation for the economy of the future.  

Smart cities 
Automated traffic reduces congestion, travel time and emissions. Adaptive traffic lights and intelligent parking systems in urban areas improve quality of life. 

AI optimizes consumption, reduces infrastructure costs and prevents accidents. Smart grids regulate electricity distribution based on demand, reducing strain on energy systems and minimizing waste. Sensor networks and big data analysis enable timely detection of issues in water supply systems, power grids, and transportation routes.   

Combating climate change  
AI models analyze climate data, predict weather changes, and spot factors affecting environmental processes. The information shapes strategies to reduce emissions and prevent disasters. AI helps optimize water and fertilizer use, which reduces the carbon footprint. AI enables better use of renewable energies, by predicting availability and managing distribution. 

AI can monitor forests to reduce illegal deforestation, which preserves biodiversity and mitigates climate change effects. AI-powered waste management systems contribute to environmental pollution reduction. 

The flip side: Managing ethical challenges 

Responsible AI use requires international cooperation to ensure that AI benefits societies.

  • Algorithm transparency: Decisions made by AI systems must be explainable and understandable to avoid discrimination or unjust biases. 
  • Data privacy: AI technologies process large volumes of personal information. Ensuring confidentiality should be a priority for developers and regulatory bodies. 
  • Fair distribution: AI benefits should not exacerbate social inequality or restrict access to certain population groups. 
  • Automation and job loss: Strategies are essential to retrain the workforce. 

In other words, AI can scale up precision healthcare, personalized education and smart cities, as well as combat climate change. But harnessing AI also requires international cooperation to manage ethical challenges.  

The Kyrgyz Republic can leverage AI by creating a national strategy, developing infrastructure, training qualified specialists, and adhering to ethical standards. This will set the foundation to safely integrate AI into key industries and ensure benefits for all citizens. International cooperation is critical. Only through joint efforts can we ensure that AI contributes to building a fair, sustainable, and prosperous future. 

Tips to Harness AI 

  • National AI strategy. A unified approach can prioritize AI use in healthcare, education, and agriculture. 
  • Infrastructure. Focus on data centers, cloud platforms, and next-generation communication networks for AI projects. 
  • Education and workforce training. Integrate AI and data analysis in education – and build on collaboration with international universities and companies for best practices. 
  • Startups and innovation. Create favorable conditions for technology startups, including grants, tax incentives, and acceleration programmes. 
  • Regulation and ethics. Develop a legal framework to ensure AI safety, data protection and adherence to ethical standards. 

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ITU or imply endorsement.