Nicosia: ‘AI is not replacing opportunity – it’s redefining and expanding it,’ declared Demetris Skourides, the Chief Scientist of the Republic of Cyprus, as he launched a new podcast series titled “Fearless Future.” The series aims to engage individuals, citizens, and organizations worldwide in dialogue about the transformative impact of artificial intelligence.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the inaugural episode, “The Future of Work in the Age of AI,” was produced by UCLan Cyprus and streamed live on LinkedIn. Moderated by Nicoletta Papakyprianou, the episode featured a conversation between Chief Scientist Skourides and Philippos Soseilos, CEO and Chairman of PwC Cyprus. The discussion centered on how AI is reshaping the global workforce, with insights drawn from PwC’s 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, McKinsey’s Superagency in the Workplace, IDC’s FutureScape GenAI Predictions, and the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025.
Skourides highlighted the shift from fear to embracing AI-enabled transformation, inviting governments, businesses, and individuals to participate in this new era. The reports emphasize AI’s role in enhancing productivity, unlocking human potential, and redefining value creation across industries. Skourides stressed that the real challenge lies in redesigning jobs, allowing machines to handle administrative tasks while humans focus on quality, insight, and innovation.
Further elaborating on the rapid digital acceleration post-COVID, Skourides noted that leveraging AI intelligently is crucial. Philippos Soseilos echoed this sentiment, advocating for “no-regret moves” such as staying informed and experimenting with AI. He pointed out that many employees use AI tools like ChatGPT to expedite tasks but fear admitting it. Soseilos encouraged organizations to foster environments where experimentation is safe and valued.
Skourides emphasized the importance of cultural transformation, advocating for an “AI-first” approach where AI is used to improve outcomes and work-life balance. He also discussed Cyprus’s National AI Task Force’s efforts to enhance the country’s AI capabilities, highlighting collaborative initiatives between academia, industry, and government to drive digital upskilling.
The Chief Scientist stressed the need for a strategic AI approach, viewing AI not as a mere tactic but as a fundamental shift in intelligence experience. He urged businesses to align technology adoption with a commitment to lifelong learning, enabling individuals to grow alongside AI.
Addressing concerns about job displacement, Skourides provided an evolving list of roles poised for growth and urged companies to implement practical, people-centric AI strategies. He encouraged active participation in the ongoing dialogue about AI’s future impact.