Nvidia trains MPs to make AI neural networks

Nvidia taught MPs, peers and government staff about how to build neural networks last week, in an effort to raise awareness about how the technology can help local communities.

Those in attendance were also given an overview of how AI is currently being used in the UK's infrastructure, such as transport, healthcare and building smart cities.

Stuart Wilson, AI and supercomputing director at Nvidia, said: "Artificial intelligence represents the biggest technological and economic shift in our lifetime. It is of national importance that policy makers understand the core components, capabilities and limitations surrounding the modern AI boom."

Although Nvidia, best known for its graphics processing units, doesn't expect MPs to start building their own neural networks, the session was designed to educate staff so they can make better decisions around AI and respond to constituent questions about the technology.

The workshop was organised by Big Innovation Centre in collaboration with Nvidia, with presentations from UCL Hospital Neurology Department, Bristol-based autonomous vehicle specialist FiveAI and Milton Keynes City Council about how they are using AI to improve the public's lives.

"Government and policy makers are not technology experts," Professor Birgitte Andersen, CEO of Big Innovation Centre said. "Practical, accessible examples of AI in action provides a real-time understanding of the impact and implications of AI for our businesses and society. More informed decision-making allows the UK to get AI-ready as a leading global innovator.

"This workshop is the latest step in ensuring Parliamentarians and other key stakeholders have the knowledge and tools they need to shape policies, regulations, and budgets in our AI future."

Last week the government was accused of having made a "massive strategic error" on AI funding, with experts raising concerns that Britain was falling significantly behind its western rivals in investment, and that Brexit would likely cut off essential cash flows from the EU.

Image: Shutterstock

Clare Hopping
Freelance writer

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.