AI adoption lightens workload for professionals
Image source: iStock photos
By Nobukhosi Ndlovu
The growing use of AI tools by professionals has ushered in a new era of efficiency in task completion, while also raising questions about their impact on users.
Artificial intelligence (AI), is technology that enables computers and machines to mimic human intelligence to perform tasks like learning, problem-solving and decision-making. Over the years, it has overtaken traditional strategies, introducing more digitalized forms of communication, research and creative tools.
Designed to improve over time, AI learns from data and understanding certain patterns in order to solve problems. From its subtle introduction in the mid-1900s, to its intergration into almost every sphere of life in the 21st century, concern has risen amongst analysts that AI has since developed to a state where people either adapt or risk being left behind.
Thuba Tshuma, a student and a music producer publicly known as Nashome shared how using AI has helped him work better, “I am generally positive about it,” he said. “AI helps artists stay in control, unlocking creativity and removing friction.”
“It really depends on how it’s used,” Tshuma warned, noting that AI tools can either enhance creativity or weaken it. He explained that AI users affect their creative sense when they just copy and upload whatever findings the tool provides without also contributing to the process and sometimes skipping the sound design. “AI helps learning faster when actually used as a reference,” he added.
Beyond music, Tshuma noted that AI tools have also helped him with his studies, making research faster and understanding complex concepts easier.
“Using AI tools saves time and money,” said Sandile Ndlovu, who uses AI for research and graphic designing.
Ndlovu explained that the creation of applications and softwares powered by AI programming has given many the power to create posters from scratch, edit videos and pictures without having to consult graphic designers.
He explained that artificial intelligence has proven to be incredibly helpful in people’s lives in terms of filtering content through algorithms to accommodate user preferences and provide instant responses of problem solving to users with emergencies.
Healthcare is another field feeling AI influence. A chemist, speaking on conditions of anonymity explained that AI has changed healthcare delivery because patient confidence and adherence to treatment improves mostly when the results they get from a healthcare personnel match with AI recommendations.
“Monitoring ethical use, including patient data protection, will be an essential skill for medical practitioners to remain relevant in an AI-driven world,” the chemist said.
Other users, however, expressed their concerns regarding the over reliance on AI powered tools. In education, for example, some worry that leaners and teachers risk enstrangement when both parties lean too hard on AI to complete tasks like homework and basic teaching. Some also worry that as AI technology advances, it may become increasingly difficult to balance its functional benefits with the need to preserve human critical thinking, creativity and ethical responsibility.
As debates continue over the impact of AI, Zimbabwe is implementing The Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030) to create a more resilient and equitable society, utilizing Al’s potential to solve many challenges including predicting diseases and bridging the digital gap between urban and rural areas.
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