Youth and Artificial Intelligence in the Turkish Century: Possibilities and Challenges
In his speech at the “Stratcom Youth 2024 Youth and Technology in Global Communication: New Era” program, he shared Turkey’s vision on science, technology and artificial intelligence. Altun drew attention to the risks that artificial intelligence poses as well as the opportunities it provides, and stated that a bold but cautious approach should be taken in this field.
The Central Role of Youth
In his speech, Altun emphasized that young people play a vital role in the vision of the Turkish Century. “Young people are founding actors in every field from science to technology. They are not the ideological fuel of any political movement or an element of consumer culture,” Altun said, adding that Turkey’s policies towards young people have raised a generation with high self-confidence by overcoming the psychology of learned helplessness.
Altun said that young people contribute to the efforts to build a truth-oriented communication order by showing sensitivity to global problems. He particularly noted the success of young people in raising global awareness of the human tragedy in Gaza.
Space and National Technology Move
Underlining Turkey’s achievements in the national technology move, Altun praised the point reached especially in space studies. Speaking about the projects of the Turkish Space Agency, Altun said that with the contributions of young engineers and scientists, Turkey has crossed a critical threshold in its space journey. “Our young people have contributed a great deal to our space missions. Our national technology move is progressing with the intelligence and determination of our youth,” he said.
Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Threats
Commenting on the opportunities and challenges brought by artificial intelligence, Altun said that Turkey has taken bold and prudent steps within the scope of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Stating that artificial intelligence has become an important tool in global struggles, Altun emphasized the importance of approaching these technologies with a critical perspective. “Artificial intelligence is a technology that makes our lives easier, but it also poses serious ethical problems and security risks. That is why we are moving forward with a cautious but bold approach.”
The Future Built with Science and Technology
Altun reminded the value given to young people with events such as TEKNOFEST and said that such organizations make a great contribution to directing young people towards science and technology. Emphasizing that Turkey will build its future with the dynamism of science, technology and youth, Altun said, “We will raise the Turkish Century on the shoulders of our youth. This is not only a vision, but also a commitment,” he said.
The Struggle for Truth in Global Communication
Stating that Turkey is working for a truth-oriented communication order, Altun said that this vision is especially aimed at eliminating injustices in global communication. Stating that Turkey defends not only its own interests but also global justice, Altun said, “Our youth have been the pioneers of this struggle by raising their voices against the human tragedy in Gaza.”
