WDTA Unveils Global AI Talent Certification Programs to Bridge the Skills Gap and Drive Ethical Innovation

2025-02-28 16:39:31

Hong Kong, February 27, 2025 — As AI technology accelerates alongside the challenges of governance, Hong Kong, leveraging its unique international position and innovation ecosystem, hosted the DWC AI STR (Safety, Trust, and Responsibility) Forum today.

At the forum, the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA) officially launched three AI talent certification programs: Certified Large Language Model Application Engineer (LLMAE), Certified Large Language Model Technical Expert (LLMTE), and International Chief AI Officer (I.CAIO). These programs aim to establish a global AI talent framework that spans technology development, industry applications, and enterprise management, driving the sustainable growth of AI.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the global economy and society at an unprecedented pace. McKinsey Global Institute predicts that by 2030, the global AI talent shortage could reach tens of millions, with skill gaps and a lack of standardization becoming major barriers to AI adoption and international collaboration.

Prof. Peter Major, Vice Chair of the United Nations Commission on Science and Technology for Development (UNCSTD), emphasized that AI is a key driver in achieving the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. However, without talent that combines technical expertise with a strong sense of responsibility, the benefits of AI could pose systemic risks rather than opportunities. He highlighted WDTA’s AI talent development framework as a critical initiative to support the sustainable growth of AI, ensuring that technological advancements benefit a broader range of countries and regions.

At the forum, Dr. Melan Xu, Executive Director of WDTA, officially launched three AI certification programs. The Certified Large Language Model Application Engineer (LLMAE) equips professionals with large model application skills to drive industry innovation and efficiency. The Certified Large Language Model Technical Expert (LLMTE) develops AI specialists with technical expertise to advance large model research and implementation. The International Chief AI Officer (I.CAIO) helps business leaders harness AI, drive digital transformation, and uphold safety, trust, and responsibility in AI adoption.

WDTA stated that these certifications complete its AI talent framework, integrating technical and managerial expertise. They are also part of the WDTA DigiBridge Digital Talent Development Initiative, bringing new momentum to the digital economy.

Hong Kong’s role as a global AI governance hub was a key highlight of the forum. Prof. C.C. Chan, Fellow of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, emphasized that Hong Kong’s world-class education, international talent pool, and strong legal framework make it a unique platform for building a global AI governance network. With the establishment of the WDTA Asia-Pacific Institute at Cyberport, efforts to develop AI standards and enhance cross-regional collaboration are set to accelerate.

As AI rapidly advances, specialized and responsible talent is essential to guiding its future. WDTA’s certification programs not only address the global AI talent gap but also embed “Safety, Trust, and Responsibility” into AI’s foundation, offering a human-centered solution to governance challenges. As Prof. Yale Li, Executive Chairman of WDTA, stated, “Only by anchoring AI in talent and steering it with responsibility can we ensure that technology’s vast potential truly illuminates humanity’s future.”

The DWC AI STR Forum marks a shift from global AI governance consensus to concrete action, with WDTA’s AI talent blueprint emerging as a key driver of this transformation.