January 31, 2025
THIMPHU – Bhutan has made significant strides in digital governance, including the establishment of secure digital platforms, but critical gaps remain in artificial intelligence (AI) readiness.
This is according to the United Nations Development Programme report, “Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment 2024.
The report highlights challenges in AI skills development, funding, data governance, and ethical frameworks, underscoring the need for a comprehensive national AI strategy.
In the 13th Plan, the government has allocated over Nu 10 billion in 21st century skilling programmes led by the GovTech Agency.
To fulfil this mandate, there remains a need to strengthen technical skills within the public sector and enhance data integration and accessibility.
The report also pointed out transparency in AI systems as a concern, with limited monitoring mechanisms and underdeveloped concepts of explainability.
One of the most pressing issues identified is the shortage of skilled AI professionals.
Despite government efforts to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the talent pool remains limited, particularly in areas like machine learning and data science.
The report stated that Bhutan lacks undergraduate programmes in AI, machine learning, software development, and data science, contributing to a scarcity of qualified graduates.
As a result, the talent pool for these fields is small and largely confined to a few organisations like GovTech Agency, Druk Holding and Investments (DHI), and academic institutions.
The report emphasised the need for a robust data governance framework is needed to ensure data quality, security, and interoperability.
It recommended the development of a central data portal to facilitate data sharing among government agencies and promote data literacy across the country.
Ethical considerations are another critical area. The report warns of the risk posed by deepfakes, AI-driven academic dishonesty, and incorrect AI inputs, which could undermine public trust, democracy, and safety.
“A robust ethical framework is essential to address concerns like data privacy, bias, and the potential for AI to exacerbate existing inequalities,” the report stated.
It recommended for public engagement and stakeholder consultations to ensure AI development aligns with Bhutan’s cultural values and principles.
The survey also found regulatory barriers for technology entrepreneurs, including difficulties in accessing finance, unclear regulations, and a lack of online platforms and networks to offer remote services.
Only 10 percent of respondents were aware of government financial support for AI development, while high costs associated with specialised hardware, such as Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), hinder AI adoption among businesses and the public.
Currently, only a handful of organisations, including the GovTech Agency, DHI, and the College of Science and Technology, have access to these powerful computing resources.
The report recommended the urgent need for a clear and strategic AI vision that aligns with Bhutan’s national development plans.
It recommended addressing the skills gap between technical and non-technical public servants, improving data quality and interoperability within government agencies, and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors.
The report surveyed government officials, academics, high school, bachelor and masters’ students, and industry stakeholders.