Scotland Invests in AI: A Stap Forrit, But Scots Leid Needs Support 

On February 10, 2025, the Scottish Government unveiled a bold investment in artificial intelligence (AI) throu its CivTech programme. This initiative aims tae tackle pressin societal issues wi a fundin boost o up tae £9 million awarded tae 14 companies. These firms are warkin on innovative AI solutions that address challenges faced by charities an public sector organisations. Amang the notable projects are saftware designed tae detect toxic contaminants for firefechters, AI systems tae ease teachers’ administrative burdens, an drone technology for monitorin puffin populations.

Business Minister Richard Lochhead pynted oot Scotland’s potential in the AI sector, citin its rich history o innovation an a strang netwark o warld-class universities. He stated, “Throu CivTech, we are revolutionisin hoo public sector organisations wark by collaboratin wi businesses tae develop products that improve lives.” Syne its launch in 2016, the CivTech programme has invested £20 million intae 90 companies, shawcasin a commitment tae fosterin innovation an job creation.

Hooanivver, while these advancements in technology are commendable, a pressin issue remains: the support for the Scots leid. A recent report fae the Committee o Experts o the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages cawed for the UK tae adopt comprehensive strategies for regional leids, includin Scots. The report pynted oot the ower-reliance on volunteers for the development o leids like Scots an Ulster Scots, alangside a lack o adequate fundin an systematic support.

The report further noted that minority leid education aften faws tae local authorities, leadin tae inconsistencies in resoorces an trained teachers ower regions. This situation is worsened by a general lack o awareness an appreciation for the cultural value o regional languages amang the mainly English-speakin majority.

As a sel-fundit news organisation, oorNews is dedicated tae promotin the Scots leid an addressin the media gap in Scotland an the UK. Despite the challenges, we believe in a vibrant future whaur the Scots leid is celebrated an supported. We invite businesses interested in supportin oorNews tae rax oot via [email protected] for tae explore advertisin opportunities, especially if they encourage the yaise o Scots amang their staff an customers.

In conclusion, while the Scottish Government’s investment in AI merks a positive stap forrit tae innovation an societal improvement, it is crucial that equal attention is gien tae the preservation an promotion o the Scots leid. A collaborative effort is needed for tae ensure that aw vyces in Scotland are heard an valued, pavin the wey for a mair inclusive society.