Macoya, Trinidad and Tobago – As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms industries and everyday life, standards play a critical role in guiding its responsible use, driving sustainable growth, and improving quality of life for all. This was the key message at a Stakeholder Appreciation and Networking Event hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) on October 14, 2024 at its headquarters in Macoya. The event celebrated individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of national standards, recognizing their role in shaping the future of standards in Trinidad and Tobago.
World Standards Day 2024, observed under the theme “Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure in the Age of AI”, underscores how standards ensure that technological innovation translates into safer, more resilient systems. This year’s celebration marks a milestone for TTBS, as it coincides with the organization’s 50th anniversary—a legacy of safeguarding consumer health, safety and national competitiveness through the enforcement of over 90 compulsory standards and the development of more than 700 national standards.
During the event, TTBS Chairman, Mr. Lawford Dupres, highlighted the vital role standards play in maintaining quality, safety and facilitating trade. “As we move forward, TTBS remains committed to international best practices, addressing consumer protection, emerging technologies, and global standards,” he said, pointing to the Bureau’s active role in ISO committees and its focus on areas such as conformity assessment and AI.
Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry, delivered a message acknowledging the Bureau’s pivotal contribution to national development. She emphasized that, in the age of AI, standards are essential for building resilient infrastructure and promoting economic transformation. “International standards are the backbone of global progress,” she stated, commending TTBS for its leadership in advancing standards for information security, cybersecurity and AI, while enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
The observance of World Standards Day 2024 serves as a reminder to all citizens of the critical role standards play in ensuring the quality, safety and efficiency of the products and services we use daily, as well as fostering innovation that improves our everyday lives.
-ENDS-