JOHANNESBURG, April 14 (Xinhua) -- South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile said Tuesday that the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) could deepen existing inequalities unless its development is managed inclusively.

Speaking at the launch of a digital innovation lab at Gert Sibande TVET College in Mpumalanga, Mashatile said the digital divide, limited access to education, and high unemployment risk leave many South Africans behind.

Mashatile cautioned against repeating the mistakes of past industrial revolutions, urging the construction of systems that "ensure technology serves people, creates opportunities and strengthens social cohesion."

Praising Gert Sibande TVET College, he said the new lab directly links education to industry needs.

"The work beginning here will ripple outward, motivating communities, empowering youth, and strengthening South Africa's voice in the global dialogue on technology and human progress. AI is reshaping cognition, operations, and problem-solving at a pivotal moment in history," he said.

The deputy president said successful AI adoption in South Africa depends on building a workforce with data literacy and cloud computing skills, and on embedding AI into artisan training to better prepare students for the workplace.

While AI is set to displace millions of jobs, it will also create millions more, said Mashatile, stressing that AI should be embraced as a tool to improve productivity, expand opportunities, and drive innovation. ■