From Pretoria to Beijing: Diverse Nations join NSDC’s AI-Powered Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) Masterclass

Last week's AI-Powered Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) Masterclass attracted attendees from all around the world, with South African participation standing out. It's interesting to note that some participants under India's premier skill-building platform, SIDH, were also from China and Pakistan.

A large number of people from different continents attended this important event on July 4th, which focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the development of digital skills. This indicates the growing interest in AI and digital education worldwide.

Global experts and enthusiasts came together for the masterclass, which was organized by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Bank, and UNESCO.

Key dignitaries such as Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Hon. Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sierra Leone; Mr. Ruben Sargsyan, Hon. Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Armenia; Mr. Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International; Mr. Ravi Peiris, OIC, ILO Decent Work Team for South Asia and Country Office for India; Dr. Borhene Chakron, Director of Policies and Lifelong Learning, UNESCO; Ms. Debjani Ghosh, President, NASSCOM, India; and Ms. Shabnam Sinha, Lead Education Specialist

3,672 people from 128 nations registered for the event in total, fully reflecting its global reach.

South Africa led the pack with 55 registrants, followed by Nigeria with 66, Kenya with 61, and Ghana with 27. South Africa's performance was impressive. Other African countries with notable presence included Ethiopia (23), Tanzania (18), and Uganda (12).

Asian nations also made notable contributions. With 18 registrants, Pakistan made a significant presence, followed by China with 5 participants, both of whom attempted to underskill the Indian ecosystem.

Significant numbers from Bangladesh (138), Trinidad & Tobago (83), the Philippines (53), and the United States (20) were among the many countries that participated in the unique international event.

Attendees actively participated in a range of activities, which included networking opportunities, panel discussions, and workshops. Their varied viewpoints and life experiences enhanced the occasion and promoted an inclusive, cooperative learning atmosphere.

The panelists discussed how AI is revolutionizing education in their home countries and highlighted effective AI projects and applications that are advancing digital skill development around the globe.

Attendees received practical information and hands-on experience integrating AI in educational settings through interactive workshops. Every participant from every nation showed a great deal of interest and excitement, enthusiastically contributing and expressing their personal struggles and experiences.

The masterclass provided a forum for international networking and relationship building. Participants grasped the chance to form alliances and consider working on joint initiatives with colleagues around the globe.

At the event's conclusion, the significance of ongoing international cooperation in promoting AI-powered education was emphasized. The encouraging comments from the attendees emphasized how important these foreign partnerships are for fostering innovation and advancement in the industry.

The AI-Powered Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) Masterclass effectively demonstrated the global participation of nations in the field of AI and digital education. In addition to adding value to the occasion, the significant involvement of South African nations, Pakistan, China, and other foreign players showed the possibility of cross-continental cooperation in influencing the direction of education.