Strive Training says the appointment reflects the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping the UK’s economy, productivity and future workforce.
The UK Government’s appointment of Kanishka Narayan MP as the country’s dedicated Minister for Artificial Intelligence has been welcomed by UK training provider Strive Training, which says the move reflects AI’s growing importance to the economy and the UK’s future competitiveness.
The new ministerial role, which spans both the Cabinet Office and the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, marks an important shift in how artificial intelligence is viewed by Government. Rather than being treated solely as a technology issue, AI is increasingly being recognised as a driver of productivity, economic growth, public sector transformation and the UK’s industrial strategy.
Commenting on the announcement, Jonny Phillips, Managing Director at UK training provider Strive Training, said:
“The appointment of a dedicated Minister for Artificial Intelligence is a hugely positive step and demonstrates just how strategically important AI has become to the UK’s future economy. It sends a strong message that artificial intelligence is no longer viewed simply as an emerging technology, but as a driver of productivity, innovation and long-term economic growth.”
For businesses, the appointment provides greater confidence that AI will remain a long-term national priority. As organisations across every sector continue to explore how artificial intelligence can improve productivity, automate routine tasks and unlock new opportunities for growth, the Government’s renewed focus is expected to encourage greater collaboration between policymakers, employers and industry.
The appointment reinforces the Government’s ambition to make the UK a global AI leader, encouraging closer collaboration with industry to accelerate innovation and adoption.
Phillips continued: “We’re already seeing organisations across every sector exploring how AI can improve efficiency, support policymaking and create better experiences for all. The Government’s commitment provides businesses with greater confidence to continue investing in innovation and embracing new technologies.”
Across both the public and private sectors, organisations are increasingly investing in AI to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences and support better decision-making. As AI adoption accelerates, equal attention should now be given to ensuring employees have the skills and confidence to make the most of these technologies.
Research previously conducted by Strive Training, based on a survey of 2,000 UK employees, found that while enthusiasm for AI continues to grow, workforce confidence remains mixed. Just one in four employees believe they have a strong understanding of artificial intelligence, while almost half admit they have little or no confidence using AI tools in the workplace.
Phillips added: “As organisations invest in AI, it’s equally important that people remain at the heart of that transformation. Giving employees the confidence and practical skills to work alongside AI will help businesses unlock far greater value from the technology while ensuring more people can benefit from the opportunities it creates.”
Strive Training believes the appointment creates an important opportunity to strengthen collaboration between government, employers and training providers, ensuring the UK’s AI ambitions are matched by continued investment in workforce development and practical AI skills.
Phillips concluded: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to accelerating AI adoption and look forward to seeing continued support for initiatives that help organisations develop the workforce needed to turn that ambition into long-term economic success. The appointment of a dedicated AI Minister represents an important step in shaping the UK’s AI future.”
