Designed Without Them? Why Young People Must Help Shape AI Governance

PURE Insight Brief 001 examines the AI Opportunity Gap, the difference between those who can meaningfully benefit from artificial intelligence and those who cannot due to unequal access, literacy, guidance, participation and opportunity. As AI reshapes how young people learn, work and participate in society, this brief explores why youth remain underrepresented in AI policymaking despite being among those most affected by AI-enabled technologies. Drawing on PURE’s work through Youth Hubs and Abhyasa learning centers across the United States, Africa and India, the brief presents five governance priorities and five policy recommendations to strengthen youth participation in AI governance. The brief calls for a shift from designing AI for young people toward shaping AI with young people, ensuring that future AI systems are inclusive, responsible and responsive to community needs. Author: Dr. Shyla TalluriOrganization: People for Urban and Rural Education (PURE)Series: PURE Insight Brief 001