Mobile operator body the GSMA has joined forces with enterprise computer giant IBM to launch a training programme designed to help telecom leaders make the most of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI).
The GSMA Foundry Generative AI program will provide its telco members with access to IBM’s AI and data platform, watsonx to explore innovative industry-specific use cases of generative AI.
In a statement, both organisations claimed that generative AI held ‘tremendous potential’ to improve operations and customer engagement in the sector.
“Generative AI can help transform customer care, IT and network optimisation —all areas in which automation can notably help increase agility and efficiency,” said the GSMA.
Training sessions are set to take place at IBM offices in Dubai, London, Mexico, New York and Seoul this year, and an online training program will be available in multiple languages, the telco body added.
A digital version of the program, aimed at software architects and developers will also be made available to help address both the business strategy and technology fundamentals of generative AI.
The news follows IBM’s latest AI Adoption Index which found that 40% of telco surveyed were exploring or experimenting with generative AI, and 45% have accelerated the rollout of AI.
Research from GSMA Intelligence also shows that while 56% of operators surveyed are actively trialling generative AI solutions – at a rate higher than any other priority technology – adoption was less prevalent amongst mid-sized and smaller operators surveyed.
GSMA’s CTO Alex Sinclair said that it was ‘critical’ that AI is democratised to ensure that all parts of the connectivity industry and their customers, wherever they are in the world, benefit.
“Bringing operators access to AI tools and knowledge, alongside the necessary skills, access and training, is key to achieving this,” he added.
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