OECD-Cisco Research Finds Stark AI Divides

AI adoption is only part of the story

According to new research, more than three-quarters of respondents in South Africa say AI is useful, and trust levels are comparably high, reflecting a population that is both curious and optimistic about technological change.

Meanwhile, young adults globally are voracious consumers of digital content, with under-35s showing the highest use of social media, online devices and generative AI. While emerging economies such as India, Brazil and Mexico lead global AI adoption with strong usage and trust levels, South Africa demonstrates similarly high confidence.

However, these markets also report the highest recreational screen time, greatest reliance on digital-only socialising, and the most pronounced emotional highs and lows from tech use. South Africa mirrors this pattern, with a significant proportion of respondents spending more than five hours per day on recreational screen time – a level associated globally with reduced life satisfaction.

Generative AI is moving rapidly from novelty to habit. But adoption rates may not tell the full story. Cisco partnered with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) on the Digital Well-being Hub to study the relationship between technology’s risks and benefits, and how AI is impacting people’s lives. This research provided critical insights that can support and connect millions of people to the digital economy, help close the digital divide, and build a global learning culture.

At the same time, many South Africans note that digital tools have strengthened their ability to stay socially connected.

“Empowering emerging economies with AI skills is not just about technology; it’s about unlocking the potential of every individual to shape their future,” said Guy Diedrich, Senior Vice President & Global Innovation Officer, Cisco. “When technology, people and purpose come together, we create the conditions for resilient, healthy and thriving communities everywhere.”

From Generative AI To Generation AI

Generational splits are equally stark, tracking existing trends in digitalisation. Younger adults worldwide report that most or all of their social interaction takes place online, and they express higher confidence in AI’s usefulness. More than 50 per cent of under-35s surveyed actively use AI, more than 75 per cent say it is useful, and almost half of 26- to 35-year-olds have completed some training.

In contrast, adults over 45 are less likely to view AI as useful, and more than half do not use it at all. Among over-55s surveyed, many say they “don’t know” if they trust AI, suggesting their uncertainty may be driven by a lack of familiarity rather than outright rejection.

South Africa reflects these generational patterns closely. Younger respondents demonstrate the strongest levels of adoption, while older adults are more likely to express uncertainty. Yet across all age groups, South Africans anticipate meaningful changes in the workplace, with many expecting AI to have a significant influence on future jobs.

“A key measure of AI’s success should not be speed of adoption, but whether people across all ages, skill levels and geographies can use AI to genuinely improve their lives,” said Diedrich. “That way we can ensure ‘Generation AI’ truly includes everyone.”

This research provides a call to action for citizens, business and government leaders worldwide to bridge the digital skills gap, foster digital literacy at every age, and prioritise wellbeing alongside innovation. For South Africa, where enthusiasm for AI is high, but wellbeing considerations require greater attention, a balanced approach to digital development will be essential to ensure equitable access and long-term positive impact.

Only then can we ensure the digital future we build is truly for everyone.