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Canada ranks near bottom globally for AI literacy and training

by Todd Humber
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Canadian workers and organizations face a significant competitive disadvantage as the country ranks fourth lowest among 47 nations for artificial intelligence literacy and training, according to new research that highlights a critical skills gap in the modern economy.

The comprehensive study by KPMG International and the University of Melbourne surveyed over 48,000 people across 47 countries, including 1,025 Canadians, between November 2024 and January 2025. Canada placed 44th overall and 28th among 30 advanced economies for AI training and literacy.

Only 24 per cent of Canadian respondents said they have received AI training, compared to 39 per cent globally. Even fewer — 38 per cent — reported having moderate or high knowledge of AI systems, well below the global average of 52 per cent.

The findings come as businesses worldwide increasingly rely on AI tools to boost productivity and remain competitive in rapidly changing markets.

“The ability to use AI effectively and knowledgeably is becoming a critical skill in today’s economy,” said Benjie Thomas, CEO and senior partner of KPMG in Canada. “AI will re-shape the future of nearly every organization, so it’s imperative for Canadian institutions to prioritize AI training and education at all levels—in schools and in the workplace.”

Trust levels lag behind global peers

The literacy gap appears to fuel broader trust issues with AI technology. Only 34 per cent of Canadians said they trust information from AI systems, compared to 46 per cent globally. Half of Canadians approve of AI use, while 72 per cent of global respondents do.

Canadian attitudes toward AI risks also diverge from international trends. Nearly half of Canadians—46 per cent—believe AI risks outweigh benefits, compared to just 32 per cent globally. Only 32 per cent of Canadians think benefits outweigh risks, versus 42 per cent worldwide.

The research identified specific concerns driving Canadian skepticism. Eighty-seven per cent expressed moderate or high concern about cybersecurity risks, though only 32 per cent had personally experienced cyber breaches. Similarly, 86 per cent worried about privacy or intellectual property loss, but just 38 per cent had experienced such issues.

Economic implications for Canadian competitiveness

The skills gap comes at a challenging time for Canadian businesses facing multiple economic pressures, including trade uncertainties and productivity challenges.

“Canada’s economy is facing multiple pressures — U.S. tariffs are upending global trade systems, geopolitical shifts are increasing operational risks, while technology advances at lightning speed,” Thomas said. “Now is the time for our organizations, institutions and governments to act boldly to boost prosperity and advance our competitive position — AI offers us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do that.”

The study found that 47 per cent of Canadians said they can use AI effectively, compared to 60 per cent globally. This self-reported efficacy gap suggests Canadian workers may struggle to adapt as AI tools become standard in many industries.

Canadians want stronger AI regulation

Despite lower adoption rates, Canadians show strong support for AI governance. Three-quarters want AI regulation, compared to 70 per cent globally. Nearly 73 per cent support government regulation of AI systems, and 72 per cent favor co-regulation involving industry, government and existing regulators.

The demand for oversight reflects underlying trust concerns. Currently, Canada operates under a voluntary code of conduct for AI development rather than formal regulatory framework.

“Canadians are understandably concerned about the potential risks of AI but being overly risk averse can stifle innovation and hold us back from being competitive,” said Stephanie Terrill, Canadian managing partner for digital and transformation at KPMG in Canada.

Path forward requires coordinated effort

The research suggests that education and training could help bridge the trust gap. Over 80 per cent of Canadians said they would trust AI systems more with proper safeguards, including human oversight, data opt-out rights, and third-party assurance.

Canadians expressed highest confidence in universities and research institutions to develop AI responsibly, with 79 per cent showing moderate or high confidence. Only 51 per cent trusted commercial organizations and 53 per cent trusted big technology companies.

“AI training and education is necessary for all Canadians,” Terrill said. “With more education, we will all be able to use AI more confidently and safely, and adoption will grow. When AI adoption grows, innovation and productivity growth will follow.”

The study included respondents from diverse age groups: 10 per cent aged 18-24, 34 per cent aged 25-44, 33 per cent aged 45-64, and 23 per cent aged 65 or older. Gender distribution was nearly even at 51 per cent women and 49 per cent men.

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