Colombia as an emerging power in the development of AI in Colombia

AI development in Colombia has ceased to be an academic concept and has become a national strategy with a direct impact on the country's economic, social, and technological transformation. Through a clear roadmap, public policies, institutional partnerships, and a growing startup ecosystem, Colombia is positioning itself as one of the Latin American leaders in artificial intelligence.

This process has been possible thanks to the long-term vision of governments, universities, and companies, who recognize that AI is not just a technological tool, but an engine of inclusive and sustainable development. In this context, the country is working to ensure that artificial intelligence serves people, guided by ethical, scientific, and collaborative principles.

Roadmap: Strategic Foundation for AI Development in Colombia

One of the most recent and significant milestones in AI development in Colombia was the official presentation of the Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Colombia, led by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. According to Minister Yesenia Olaya, this strategic document establishes a clear vision of how AI should contribute to collective well-being, with an ethical, inclusive, and sustainable approach.

“Artificial intelligence is presented as a fundamental tool that can positively shape the future of our nation. But its development must be guided by solid ethical principles and a strategic vision that guarantees the well-being of all Colombians,” Olaya stated during the event held at the National University (Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation).

The roadmap places special emphasis on responsible governance, strengthening education, and collaboration between universities, businesses, and civil society, all of which are pillars of AI development in Colombia. Furthermore, the minister emphasized that AI must be understood as a national project that requires the active participation of all knowledge sectors.

Historical Evolution of AI Development in Colombia

The development of AI in Colombia did not emerge overnight. Its evolution began with a vengeance at the beginning of the 21st century, when the Colombian Society of Artificial Intelligence (SCIA) was founded in 2001, and in 2004 the first master's program in Artificial Intelligence was created at the National University of Colombia. These events marked the beginning of a period of academic maturity that laid the foundation for the current progress (Open Sistemas).

During the 2010s, real-world applications began to emerge in healthcare, agriculture, and government. For example, solutions for AI-assisted medical diagnosis, tools to improve crop yield, and automated systems for public management began to emerge as a result of this early investment in training and technology.

In 2023, the country's innovation ecosystem was strengthened by the rise of technology startups. Many of these emerging companies are using artificial intelligence to offer disruptive products and services that impact sectors such as finance, logistics, education, and commerce. This growth has been crucial in further boosting AI development in Colombia.

Regulatory framework that drives AI development in Colombia

The regulatory framework is another pillar of AI development in Colombia. Through the approval of the CONPES document of the National Policy on Artificial Intelligencecial, the country established guidelines to ensure ethical, transparent, and people-centered adoption.

This document was approved by the National Council for Economic and Social Policy, with the participation of the National Planning Department (DNP), the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MinTIC), the Ministry of Science, and the Presidential High Council for Digital Transformation.

According to the DNP, this policy seeks not only to promote the use of AI, but also to mitigate its risks, foster equity, and promote the country's digital transformation. Thus, the development of AI in Colombia is aligned with national priorities, ensuring a positive social, economic, and environmental impact.

Human talent and training: driving force behind AI development in Colombia

One of the most critical aspects for sustaining AI development in Colombia is talent development. For more than a decade, universities and technical training centers have incorporated specialized programs in data science, machine learning, and AI ethics.

The government has also promoted initiatives such as Misión TIC and partnerships with international platforms to facilitate access to quality technology education. These efforts seek to reduce regional and gender gaps, expanding access to knowledge and strengthening the country's AI capabilities.

Thanks to this approach, Colombia is consolidating itself not only as a technology user, but also as a producer of AI-based solutions. Investment in human capital is essential for the long-term sustainability of AI development in Colombia.

The Future of AI Development in Colombia: Innovation with a Social Purpose

Unlike other models, AI development in Colombia is characterized by incorporating a people-centered approach. This means that beyond automating processes or reducing costs, artificial intelligence is conceived as a tool to solve social problems, reduce inequalities, and improve citizens' quality of life.

This vision is also reflected in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Colombian startups not only create solutions for the local market but are also beginning to export their technology to other countries in the region, strengthening Colombia's image as an emerging powerhouse in AI.

With clear public policies, highly skilled talent, a dynamic innovation ecosystem, and a commitment to ethics, Colombia is poised to lead the conversation on artificial intelligence in Latin America and beyond.

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