In a significant move towards ethical AI deployment in the public sector, The Alan Turing Institute has released the first four workbooks as part of its AI Ethics and Governance in Practice Programme. These resources are designed to guide public sector teams in integrating ethical values and practical principles into their AI innovation practices. Supported by funding from the Office for AI and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, this initiative aims to establish responsible and trustworthy AI futures for the benefit of the public.
The Alan Turing Institute, a renowned hub for artificial intelligence (AI) research, has taken a proactive step towards fostering ethical AI adoption in the public sector. With the release of the first four workbooks, the institute’s AI Ethics and Governance in Practice Programme sets out to provide invaluable guidance and resources for public servants. This initiative comes as governments around the world grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technologies.
Framework for ethical AI integration
Under the guidance of Professor David Leslie, Director of Ethics and Responsible Innovation Research at the Alan Turing Institute, the AI Ethics and Governance in Practice Programme offers a structured framework for public sector teams. This framework enables the seamless integration of ethical values and practical principles into their AI innovation practices.
Workbooks overview
The workbooks, crafted through collaboration between Turing ethics researchers and public sector bodies, introduce a Process-Based Governance (PBG) framework. They place a strong emphasis on the SSAFE-D Principles, which encompass Sustainability, Safety, Accountability, Fairness, Explainability, and Data Stewardship. Here’s a brief overview of the first four workbooks:
This foundational workbook acquaints public sector professionals with the core principles and ethical considerations surrounding AI.
Focusing on sustainability, this workbook guides teams through the process of creating AI projects that are environmentally and socially responsible.
Delving into the workflow, this workbook explores how to maintain sustainability throughout the lifecycle of AI projects. Addressing the critical issue of fairness, this workbook equips public sector teams with practical tools to ensure equitable AI outcomes.
Support and collaboration
These workbooks have been developed with support from the Office for AI and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. The collaboration between academic research and public sector expertise ensures that the resources are grounded in both theory and practical application.
Aims and objectives
Professor David Leslie, outlining the initiative, emphasized the importance of this program in the context of current global challenges. He stated, “Creating responsible and trustworthy public sector AI futures is crucial for realizing the immense potential of AI technologies to serve the public interest and to advance the common good.”
He further added, “At a time when the development of advanced AI technologies could play a critical role in helping governments tackle difficult global problems like climate change, biodiversity loss, and biomedical and public health challenges, it is essential to have in place governance protocols and training regimes that lay the foundations for a culture of responsible AI innovation.”
Looking ahead
As the Alan Turing Institute prepares to release the next four workbooks and launch a digital platform, the public sector will have access to a comprehensive suite of tools, training, and support to navigate the ethical complexities of AI deployment. This initiative is a significant step towards ensuring that AI technologies align with the best interests of society and the common good.
In an era marked by rapid advancements in AI, ethical considerations must remain at the forefront of public sector initiatives. The Alan Turing Institute’s AI Ethics and Governance in Practice Programme, through its innovative workbooks and forthcoming digital platform, provides an essential roadmap for public sector professionals to navigate the intricacies of AI ethics. With the support of the Office for AI and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, this initiative seeks to build a foundation of responsible AI innovation, ensuring that AI technologies serve the greater good and address pressing global challenges.
