Leaders Discuss Fusion Power and AI at Davos 2025 Summit

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At the World Economic Forum in Davos, a high-profile panel of three business leaders addressed the future of fusion power and artificial intelligence. Bob Mumgaard, CEO of Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Abhishek Awadhiya of SimpliAI, and Akshay Saxena, founder of Avanti Fellows, shared their insights on the potential of these technologies to reshape the global landscape.

Mumgaard emphasized the promise of nuclear fusion energy, explaining that it operates by merging light elements, akin to the processes taking place in the Sun. He highlighted the absence of catastrophic risks like meltdowns and the lack of long-lived waste, contrasting it with traditional nuclear power. His company is currently developing a prototype in Boston, expected to become operational in two years, which could mark a significant advancement in clean energy generation.

Awadhiya spoke on the role of AI in enhancing productivity across various industries. He noted that although an estimated 90 million jobs may be lost to automation by 2030, about 170 million new jobs would emerge, reflecting a transformation similar to the Industrial Revolution. He urged the need for a positive narrative around AI to foster acceptance and alleviate concerns about job displacement.

Saxena raised caution regarding the implementation of AI in education, especially in countries like India, where inequities persist. He stressed the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive alongside AI technologies, warning that failure to do so could hinder India's future workforce adaptability.

The discussions at Davos come as India aims to reinforce its position as a leader in sustainable development and innovation, with a delegation that includes five Union ministers and three chief ministers participating in the summit.

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