Risk v opportunity – finding the balance in responsible AI
In a rapidly changing technological world, how can we manage the risks that the use of AI poses while taking advantage of the opportunities it offers? It’s a question that an increasing number of us are having to consider but for those embarking on a career, it’s particularly important to understand how it is shaping modern workplaces.
Responsible AI was the focus of the latest session in the Purpose Lab Ambassador programme where students from Purpose Coalition universities meet Purpose Coalition partners. It was led by James Winters, AI Governance and Compliance Lead at global digital infrastructure business Colt.
The session heard how the world’s first comprehensive, AI-focused regulation, the 2025 EU AI Act, will change the way businesses deploy and build AI systems. It explored how AI governance can impact company values, brand reputation, environmental and social concerns and safety and security. It took a deep dive into the risks and limitations of AI such as misinformation, discrimination, privacy and security as well as malicious actors and socioeconomic and environmental harm, especially in the context of the current geopolitical situation. As organisations increasingly integrate AI into their operations, products and services, the session learned how different AI stakeholders in business strategy, technological design and legal compliance work together.
A thought-provoking discussion encouraged participants to consider ethical issues such as AI CV scanning, automated decision-making and the responsible use of AI tools. They flagged a variety of potential areas of risk or challenge, including the impact of AI on the environment in terms of data storage, the challenges of GDPR compliance and data governance and how smaller companies can compete with the tech giants. It gave them the chance to think more deeply about the issues involved and how true purpose-driven leadership can positively shape the future.
Purpose Lab Ambassadors were also able to hear more about the practical aspects of AI - for example, its use in job searches and applications. They were advised to use it as a tool to research or critique rather than to generate content to ensure applications were authentic and effectively tailored to the job in question. They also heard about the career opportunities AI offers, not just for those studying technical subjects but in other disciplines such as philosophy, business or law. Some participants are already investigating the use of AI as an integral part of their studies, for example in the development of an AI-powered app for women’s health or in renewable energy use for smart cities.
The discussion highlighted that alongside the undoubted risks of AI there is a huge opportunity for it to be a force for good, but the emphasis should be on involving everyone in its governance, not just technical stakeholders, so that diversity of background and thought can shape its future direction.
This is particularly relevant in the context of the Purpose Lab programme, bringing together students from education institutions such as Teesside University, University of Worcester and University of Salford who can learn about different sectors and input their views on a future workplace with Purpose Coalition partners who can hear firsthand from potential future employees about their values and what is important to them.
