'digital literacy' essential in modern age: Chief Justice

Chief Justice Abdul Ghanee Mohamed stated that if an individual does not possess "digital literacy" or the ability to use modern technological tools, they have reached a point where they can no longer be considered a literate person.

Speaking at the ceremony held at Paradise Island Resort to inaugurate this year’s Judicial Conference, the Chief Justice noted that becoming a capable professional requires different skills in different eras. He emphasized that in this day and age, one of the most vital skills required for such a professional is the use of technology.

Consequently, the first day of this year’s conference has been dedicated to discussing the advancements and benefits that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology can bring to the judiciary, as well as how to utilize technology to its fullest potential.

The Chief Justice explained that when reflecting on the main theme of the conference, the first thing that came to his mind was a statement made by former U.S. President Bill Clinton regarding "literacy" in the 21st century.

"At that time, he said that the standard of literacy worldwide had generally been assessed based on three basic skills. Those three skills are being able to read in one's mother tongue, being able to write, and knowing the basic levels of mathematics," the Chief Justice said.

"However, he described that since the 21st century, things have changed to the extent that a person is not considered literate unless a fourth skill is fulfilled. This means that a person will be considered literate only if, in addition to the three skills mentioned earlier, they also possess the skill of 'digital literacy'."

He stated that this day has now arrived and that without "digital literacy," there is currently no visible path forward.

The Chief Justice added that this is an era where one cannot progress without also learning and becoming familiar with "AI literacy." He noted that for this reason, there is a renewed need to increase courage, talent, and stamina, and that the theme for this year's conference was chosen with that objective in mind.

"In any case, we no longer have the choice to remain without welcoming technology. If that happens, technology will pass us by," the Chief Justice said.

The Chief Justice further said that if the pace is not accelerated now, technology will eventually "uninstall" us on its own, leaving us as strangers to both technology and the modern era.

Highlighting that the use of Artificial Intelligence is now a common practice in the judicial systems of many countries worldwide, he cited the example of the Supreme Court of India.

He noted that with the introduction of AI to the work of the Indian Supreme Court, the case completion rate has increased by 100 percent each year. He also mentioned that highly capable and technical experts from the Indian Judicial Academy are participating in the conference and will share further details of India's experience in this regard.

"Just like the Supreme Court of India, we too, with just a little courage and with the help of Allah, can achieve such successful results," the Chief Justice said.