PARAMARIBO, Suriname — Suriname is positioning itself at the forefront of responsible artificial intelligence development in the Caribbean after beginning UNESCO’s updated AI Readiness Assessment Methodology, known as RAM 2.0.

The initiative makes Suriname the first country in the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean to undertake the updated assessment, marking an important step in the country's digital transformation agenda.

An introductory stakeholder meeting on August 27 brought together 106 participants from 67 institutions across 10 sectors, including government representatives, businesses, educators, technology specialists and civil society organizations.

The assessment will examine how artificial intelligence is already being used in Suriname, while identifying opportunities, skills requirements and safeguards needed for responsible AI adoption.

Surveys, interviews and sector consultations will form part of the process as stakeholders develop a clearer picture of Suriname's AI ecosystem.

The initiative could have major implications for Suriname's technology sector, particularly as businesses and public institutions increasingly explore AI-powered services, automation and digital solutions.

The assessment also places emphasis on ethical AI governance, public trust and safeguards, rather than focusing solely on technological adoption.

Suriname's move could provide a framework for future AI policies and help strengthen the country's position in the rapidly developing Caribbean digital economy.