Policy Connect recently hosted the launch of our new report, Skills in the Age of AI, in Parliament, bringing together parliamentarians, industry leaders, educators, and youth to discuss building the UK’s AI skills infrastructure. Chaired by Lord Tim Clement-Jones, the event launched a cross-party report outlining practical steps to close the AI skills gap, empower communities, and promote inclusion. 

Lord Clement-Jones stressed the urgency of advancing AI education amid legislative delays, while Lauren Edwards MP called for a skills system supporting SMEs and equitable upskilling for all. 

Alyson Hwang from Policy Connect highlighted three key themes: AI education and public awareness, workforce digital skills development, and regulatory safeguards to build trust and ethical AI use. 

Panellists emphasised trust, inclusion, and human-centred AI: 

• Penny Jones (Zurich) stressed responsible AI design and organizational capability.
• Hugh Milward (Microsoft) warned of risks leaving people behind and urged accessible AI learning.
• Dr Freeha Azmat (Warwick) highlighted critical thinking and SME support.
• Keeley Crockett (Manchester) advocated for grassroots engagement in marginalized communities.
• Sue Attwell (Jisc) underlined colleges’ role and training resource utilization.
• TeenTech’s Miranda and Simran called for better teacher training, equitable access, and youth involvement, noting political fears affect young people’s confidence. 

The audience Q&A reinforced the need for trust, inclusion, and practical solutions - focusing on AI ambassadors, SME support, gender and diversity, and youth education. 

For more info, contact Alyson Hwang: alyson.hwang [at] policyconnect.org.uk (alyson[dot]hwang[at]policyconnect[dot]org[dot]uk)