Enriching learning with real-life insights in AI ethics and governance

 

So Zhang Ting

Alumni of NBS/2002
Head (Finance Data & Analytics) at Ministry of Finance
Completed Certificate in AI Ethics and Governance

Please share with us your professional life’s journey and at which point in your career did you aspire to pursue this certificate.

My professional journey weaves through diverse fields, traversing financial advisory, marketing, management accounting, government auditing, and now, immersion in data analytics & AI/machine learning. Presently, I contribute to a team overseeing a finance analytics platform in the public sector while spearheading data science initiatives. The advent of groundbreaking AI applications, such as ChatGPT, ignited my interest in governance for AI technologies. Hence, I decided to take up this certificate after speaking to my friend who completed the courses a few batches before me.


What attracted you to your chosen certificate at PaCE@NTU?

The joint certification by the Singapore Computer Society and Nanyang Technological University stood out when I was researching AI Ethics and Governance courses. The course's foundation in the latest AI ethics and governance developments and Singapore's AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge appealed to me. The flexibility of online learning, coupled with the use of NTU Alumni course credits, made the decision even more compelling, providing a valuable opportunity for me to delve into AI ethics without the constraints of on-campus attendance.


Which aspect of this certificate did you like the most?

The certificate's most compelling feature was its methodical approach to comprehending the AI Ethics and Governance Body of Knowledge, governance frameworks, the Singapore National AI strategy, and associated initiatives in Singapore and overseas. The inclusion of real-life case studies from fellow participants (past and my batch) brought a practical dimension, enriching the overall learning experience.


What were the challenges you faced when trying to complete this certificate?

Juggling work and personal commitments posed a significant challenge. To overcome this, I dedicated weekends and weekday evenings exclusively to attending classes and completing assignments. The commitment was demanding but worthwhile for the knowledge gained.


Do you think lifelong learning is important? Please share your thoughts about it.

Learning isn't just a career necessity for me; it's a hobby/passion. Whether through formal courses, on-the-job experiences, or interactions with diverse individuals, continuous learning is something that excites and energises me. Embracing change as the only constant, lifelong learning is my chosen strategy for fully savoring life's experiences.