World News for Students of English

10-03-2025 07:00

In Kenya, an invisible workforce is raising concerns. These workers spend long hours reviewing massive amounts of data to improve artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

Their role is crucial, however, they earn much less than their counterparts in wealthier countries. Many say the work is mentally exhausting, leaving them traumatized and distressed.

Joanne, a data annotator, describes labeling images and categorizing disturbing content, such as explicit photos and violent scenes. Another worker, Stacy, moderates videos on TikTok, often seeing graphic content like accidents or violent crimes. Exposure to such material affects their mental health, leading to anxiety and nightmares. While some companies provide minimal psychological support, it is often inadequate.

Experts argue that tech companies outsourcing these tasks to developing countries must ensure fair wages and better working conditions. Workers are starting to unite through associations to demand rights and protections. Without proper intervention, the AI industry risks exploiting vulnerable workers for profit.

Difficult words: counterpart (a person or thing that has the same position or purpose as another person or thing in a different place or organization), distressed (suffering from extreme anxiety or pain), inadequate (not enough or good enough).

You can watch the video news lower on this page.