Are Workers Afraid of AI? Not Really, According to Global Survey

In recent years, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has generated much debate and speculation about its impact on the workforce. Concerns about job displacement and the changing nature of work are prevalent. 

However, a comprehensive survey conducted by Microsoft paints a different picture: workers are not as fearful of AI as one might think. Instead, they are more interested in how AI can enhance their roles and productivity.

The global perspective

According to Microsoft’s 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report, workers globally are beginning to see AI as a collaborative tool rather than a threat. The survey highlights that most employees view AI as a means to reduce their workload and increase productivity. About 70% of workers believe AI will help them accomplish their tasks more efficiently, while 80% see it as a tool providing new skills and capabilities.

The report highlights that 75% of knowledge workers use AI at work today. Employees recognise the potential of AI to handle mundane and repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their work. 

The desire for improved job satisfaction and work-life balance largely drives this shift towards embracing AI. Users say AI helps them save time (90%), focus on their most important work (85%), be more creative (84%), and enjoy their work more (83%).

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AI adoption: Singapore’s workforce sentiment

In Singapore, the sentiment towards AI mirrors the global trend. According to global job matching and hiring platform survey, Indeed, over two-thirds of workers in Singapore are looking to upskill in 2024 to adapt to the demands of a changing job market.

In interviewing 1,211 employees based in Singapore, the survey found 68% of respondents were motivated to learn new skills for their careers, with 38% of the respondents admitting that the increasing adoption of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI),

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AI adoption: Plenty of government support for workers

A hotbed for rapid technological advancements boosted by forward-thinking policies, Singapore is actively integrating AI into its economic framework. The government has been a strong advocate for AI adoption, with the launch of the National AI Strategy to position Singapore as a leader in AI innovation.

To help Singapore workers adopt AI at work effectively, the government is investing S$1 billion to accelerate AI development and adoption in the next five years. Up to S$500m will go towards strengthening AI infrastructure to support the wave of AI adoption for the workforce.

Various programmes and initiatives have been rolled out to provide Singaporeans with opportunities to acquire new skills and adapt to the evolving job landscape. Below are some of the programmes that are tailored for specific career stages.

AI Accelerated Masters Programme

To build a pipeline of Singaporean research talent and students keen on AI research roles or to pursue doctorate programmes.

IMDA’s SG Digital Scholarship 

To support more Singaporean students pursuing AI and related undergraduate, Masters and PhD courses in universities.

TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA)

To cater to fresh graduates and mid-career workers keen on AI. IMDA will also expand company-led training for locals in AI. IMDA is also targeting to reskill about 18,000 tech professionals in AI and Analytics, emphasising GenAI, Software Engineering, Cloud and Mobility.

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The future of work with AI

The consensus from the Microsoft survey and similar studies is clear: AI is not something to be feared but embraced. The technology promises to transform work — making tasks more manageable and freeing up time for innovation and creativity. For workers, the key lies in adaptability and a willingness to learn.

As Singapore continues to integrate AI into its economy, the focus remains on creating a supportive environment for workers to thrive. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation, Singapore aims to harness the full potential of AI, ensuring that both businesses and employees can benefit from this technological revolution.

Listen to the podcast here to learn more about how AI transforms work and businesses in Singapore.