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

On February 10, 2025, e Scottish Government unveiled a bold investment in artificial intelligence (AI) throu its CivTech programme. Iss 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 aat address challenges faced by charities an public sector organisations. Amang e notable projects are saftware designed tae detect toxic contaminants for firefechters, AI systems for easin teachers’ administrative burdens, an drone technology for monitorin puffin populations.

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

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

E report further noted aat minority leid education aften faas tae local authorities, leadin tae inconsistencies in resoorces an trained teachers ower regions. Iss situation is worsened by a lack o awareness an appreciation for e cultural value o regional leids amang e mainly English-spikkin majority.

As a sel-fundit news organisation, oorNews is dedicated tae promotin e Scots leid an addressin e media gap in Scotland an e UK. Despite the challenges, we believe in a vibrant future far e Scots leid is celebrated an supported. We invite businesses interested in supportin oorNews tae rax oot via info@oornews.co.uk for tae explore advertisin opportunities, especially if they encourage the eese o Scots amang their staff an customers.

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