ReadyAI CEO at Aspen Forum: Bridging the Digital Divide Amid Global Disparities in AI

By: ReadyAI

In his address at the Aspen Forum, Dr. Roozbeh Aliabadi, Co-founder and CEO of ReadyAI, spoke passionately about the urgent need to address the digital divide in an increasingly AI-driven world. His discussion, part of the panel titled “Ensuring Nobody is Left Behind by the Digital Revolution,” examined how disparities in access to digital tools and infrastructure deepen existing inequalities. Focusing on the global dimensions of this issue, he highlighted both the potential and risks of AI, emphasizing a need for cooperation, regulation, and inclusivity to ensure equitable digital progress.

AI and the Global Digital Divide: Distinct Barriers and Potential Solutions

Dr. Aliabadi stressed that while access to digital technology is often seen as an isolated challenge, the reality is a complex interplay of infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and cultural differences. “We’re seeing the digital divide not just as a question of access but as a broader issue of infrastructure and regulation,” he explained. This divide not only separates those who have technology from those who don’t but is also fostering emerging divisions between states. According to him, AI-driven systems and large language models are often shaped by national policies, which means they differ significantly in their core design and purpose. “We’re likely headed toward two major types of AI frameworks — one centered on Western democratic values and another on more centralized Eastern models.”

He pointed out that the regulatory approaches in the U.S. and Europe have created notable gaps in how data and technology are managed. While Europe has taken the lead with strict regulations like GDPR and the EU AI Act, which emphasize data protection and transparency, the U.S. approach has often focused on driving innovation and private sector growth. “The regulatory divide between the U.S. and Europe influences how AI develops across regions, potentially creating two versions of AI for two different populations,” he stated.

Generative AI and the Growing Divide

As generative AI tools evolve, they bring both opportunities for knowledge dissemination and risks of greater isolation. Dr. Aliabadi noted, “Generative AI tools are creating what I call ‘digital islands,’ where personalized algorithms limit users’ exposure to alternative perspectives.” This personalization, he argued, is creating “echo chambers” where people see only information aligned with their views or preferences, potentially leading to increased polarization.

He illustrated this with the example of a child using AI for education. If a student regularly specifies certain preferences, the algorithm will adapt by presenting only related information, creating a “single human island” where learning is isolated from broader contexts. He likened this to early Twitter, where users were mainly exposed to content aligned with their political or social beliefs. “These AI models learn from us, but in doing so, they might be isolating us further from one another.”

AI as a Bridge or Barrier: Customized Learning and the Future of Digital Education

Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful about AI’s potential in education, particularly its ability to personalize learning and promote inclusivity. “AI offers the opportunity to customize education to the unique needs of each learner,” he shared. He praised innovations like Khan Academy’s AI tutor, Khanmigo, for tailoring lessons to individual learning paces, styles, and challenges. “Tools like these don’t just educate; they connect us by equalizing knowledge,” he emphasized.

Dr. Aliabadi highlighted ReadyAI’s work in over 156 countries, offering AI curricula and competitions that encourage young learners to explore real-world applications of AI. Through initiatives like the World AI Competition for Youth (WAICY), ReadyAI provides students across the globe with hands-on opportunities to solve complex challenges, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds. “Education can bridge the digital divide, but only if it’s accessible, continuous, and engaging,” he said, reinforcing the importance of high-bandwidth, reliable internet access for sustained learning.

Public-Private Partnerships: A Model for Global Collaboration

Turning to solutions, he emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships. He cited the example of the U.S. government’s collaboration with tech giants like Google and Microsoft, which has created over 120,000 jobs in generative AI and cybersecurity. “This model has proven that with the right partnerships, we can address workforce needs in real-time,” he noted. However, he also pointed out the lack of a coherent, unified approach to AI regulation across countries. “While Europe and the U.S. have made strides independently, we lack a global framework that aligns our values with technological advancements,” he observed, calling for more collaboration among international bodies to create cohesive policies on AI ethics and data transparency.

He also addressed the critical role that governments play in supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in tech. “Entrepreneurs need regulatory and financial support to succeed in digital transformation, especially in underserved regions,” he remarked. He noted that while Europe and the U.S. have launched initiatives in Africa, more work is needed to empower local entrepreneurs who can address digital challenges from within their communities.

The Human Element: A Focus on the Next Generation and Inclusivity

For Dr. Aliabadi, fostering a digitally inclusive world also means empowering a new generation of tech-savvy, globally minded individuals. Reflecting on ReadyAI’s mission, he expressed optimism about the potential of younger generations, who are growing up in a world where technology is increasingly intertwined with daily life. “Young people today will shape the future of technology, and they need to be active participants, not just passive users,” he said.

He also stressed the need for diversity within the AI workforce. With women underrepresented in AI and tech sectors globally, he argued for more programs to encourage girls to pursue careers in STEM from a young age. “Our AI ecosystem must reflect the diversity of society to avoid biases that can arise from homogenous perspectives,” he said, adding that inclusivity will be essential for a balanced and ethical AI development.

The Path Forward: Reshaping the Future Together

In closing, Dr. Aliabadi emphasized that the digital divide cannot be bridged by technology alone; it requires collaboration, regulation, and a focus on humanity. “The ultimate question isn’t about access alone — it’s about what it means to be human in the age of AI,” he said. With initiatives that range from digital education programs to partnerships focused on sustainable technology, he remains committed to narrowing the digital divide and ensuring that future generations are equipped not only with the tools of technology but with a deep understanding of its ethical and social implications.

By fostering an environment where every child, regardless of location or background, can access digital tools and education, he envisions a future where technology bridges communities rather than divides them. He left the audience with a hopeful message: “Our journey toward digital equity begins with empowering the next generation to be thinkers, creators, and leaders in the world of AI. With sustained efforts, we can shape a future where technology is a unifying force that respects and uplifts all voices.”

To learn more about ReadyAI, visit www.readyai.org or email us at info@readyai.org.