GCNT chairman urges Thailand to boost human resources for Society 5.0

The chairman of Global Compact Network Thailand (GCNT) called on the government to increase its investment in human resources development in preparation for Society 5.0. This new era will be marked by the prominent role of innovative technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in driving the global economy.

Suphachai Chearavanont made these remarks while addressing the GCNT Forum 2023 on the theme Partnership for Human Capital 5.0 towards Sustainable Intelligence (SI)-Based Society. He underscored the importance of human resources as a pivotal factor in achieving the United Nations Framework for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to Suphachai, enhanced human resources are critical for steering Society 5.0, given the significant role AI and advanced technology will play in socio-economic development. He noted that Thailand’s human capital investment is currently low in comparison to its GDP growth, reported Bangkok Post.

“The global human capital index indicates that Thailand should act swiftly and intensify its investment in human resources development. Under Society 5.0, we are likely to confront numerous challenges due to a lack of comprehensive knowledge and technological skills.

“It is crucial to equip our human resources to establish a Sustainable Intelligence-Based Society, or SI Society, and to reinforce norms and ethics to ensure SI over AI, thereby preventing any misuse of technology.”

Suphachai recommended that educational institutes should strive to augment the abilities and skills of 12.5 million students to prepare them for future work involving AI technology. He advocated for a significant overhaul of the education system, proposing a shift towards action-based design learning, with teachers playing the role of coaches.

Private sector

Additionally, Suphachai urged the private sector to contribute by instilling good business practices and governance in students. He emphasised the need for a responsible transition to Society 5.0, suggesting that upskilling initiatives should also target vulnerable groups such as disabled people, migrant workers, and people outside the education system.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, who presided over the forum, echoed Suphachai’s sentiments, stating that the government prioritises human resources development, and believes that high-quality human capital is key to achieving the SDGs.

Gita Sabharwal, the UN’s Resident Coordinator in Thailand, lauded the GCNT Forum for affirming Thailand’s commitment to leading in sustainable development goals through increased collaboration between the government and private sector.

The UN also expressed support for up-skilling and re-skilling initiatives, aiming to upskill at least one million people in 133 member countries by 2030, and establishing a Sustainable Intelligence Youth Club by 2024.