Michael Ogbu

In today’s digital age, “literacy” means much more than the ability to read and write. UNESCO defines digital literacy as the ability to access, manage, understand, integrate, communicate, evaluate, and create information safely through digital technologies. In practice, it’s a lifelong learning process. As tools evolve, so must our skills and judgment. By this standard, AI literacy – fluency in how AI works, what data it uses, and how it impacts society – is fast becoming a cornerstone of effective governance. Experts consistently underscore this: public awareness and AI literacy are essential for responsible AI development and oversight. In short, you can’t govern what people don’t understand.

What is AI?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to technologies that enable machines to simulate aspects of human intelligence, from vision and speech recognition to language processing and decision-making. AI is now powering everything from chatbots and virtual assistants to fraud detection, diagnostic tools, and personalized content.

One of the biggest leaps forward has been generative AI – systems that create original content such as text, images, or music from user prompts. These tools are reshaping work, creativity, and communication across sectors.

What is AI Literacy?
AI literacy is the blend of knowledge, skills, and mindset required to understand and responsibly interact with AI systems. UNESCO’s draft AI Literacy (AILit) Framework defines it as the ability to use, question, and collaborate with AI effectively and ethically.

An AI-literate person recognizes algorithmic decision-making in daily life (such as how social media feeds are curated), can evaluate the reliability of AI-generated content, and understands the implications of delegating tasks to machines. It’s not just about technical know-how, it’s about critical thinking, ethics, and digital citizenship in the age of AI.

Why AI Literacy Matters
In the workplace, AI literacy boosts productivity, encourages innovation, and expands opportunities. Employees who understand AI tools can apply them more effectively, and organizations can build trust by ensuring their workforce engages with AI ethically and transparently. At a societal level, AI literacy helps combat misinformation, bridge the digital divide, and foster democratic accountability. As the use of AI increases in education, healthcare, employment, and governance, people need to understand what these systems do, how they affect rights, and how to respond when things go wrong.

How AI Literacy Is Being Built
Efforts are underway across several fronts:

Education and Curriculum: UNESCO, the EU, and others have released AI literacy frameworks, and countries like the U.S. are creating AI-focused education resources for schools and teachers.
Workforce Training: Governments are investing in upskilling programs, and public–private partnerships are offering free courses to help adults learn AI basics.
Community Initiatives: Libraries and nonprofits are leading grassroots efforts – like Toronto Public Library’s Introduction to AI course and their recent AI Summit – to make AI education more accessible.
Online Resources: Platforms like Coursera and Khan Academy are providing open access to AI literacy content for global audiences.

Challenges Remain
Despite growing awareness, several obstacles continue to hinder AI literacy for many communities. The digital divide remains a foundational issue. Without reliable internet, access to devices, or basic digital skills, many people are shut out of learning opportunities altogether. This is especially true for marginalized groups in rural areas, low-income neighborhoods, and among older populations.

Additionally, fear and mistrust of AI persist. With growing concerns about job displacement, surveillance, and algorithmic bias, it’s no surprise that many approach AI with skepticism. Without proper education, these fears can lead to disengagement or passive acceptance, rather than critical understanding.

Recommendations for Moving Forward

Integrate AI into national education systems
Upskill workers across all sectors
Expand public–private partnerships to scale community learning
Support AI literacy with regulatory and policy frameworks

Closing Thoughts
AI literacy is more than a trendy skill – it’s a civic imperative. It empowers individuals to participate fully in the AI-driven world, holds institutions accountable, and safeguards democratic values. As technology continues to evolve, we need a population equipped not just to use AI, but to question it, improve it, and ensure it serves the public good.

Let’s prioritize literacy that meets this moment – one that embraces curiosity, encourages responsibility, and builds the foundation for ethical innovation. In a world shaped by algorithms, understanding them is no longer optional.

Image credit: Generated by AI.