Global AI adoption rises amid talent shortages and security risks

Global trends show a rapid increase in artificial intelligence adoption across various sectors, though the impact on productivity and security varies significantly by region and industry.

In Europe, ECB research indicates that AI use among workers has doubled in two years, reaching 52% in 2026, with users saving a median of three hours per week. Similarly, in Portugal, 84% of employees report using AI, though many use unauthorized tools, creating security risks.

In Brazil, companies face a significant shortage of IT specialists, with 98% of large and medium corporations reporting recruitment difficulties, particularly for software engineers and AI specialists. While AI adoption in Brazilian businesses is growing, experts emphasize that access to tools must be paired with professional training to ensure real productivity gains. Additionally, the rise of ‘Shadow AI’—where 40% of professionals use personal AI tools—has compromised security for 51% of organizations.

In the education sector, UK teachers report that while AI use has doubled, it has not significantly reduced working hours, as saved time is often consumed by new tasks. In Canada, teachers express concern that AI is being used by students to complete homework, potentially leading to a decline in critical thinking skills.

In the UAE, Ankabut has launched an agentic AI platform designed to automate campus services, such as admissions and student support, to improve operational scalability.