Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Manchester Metropolitan University
Advancing Ethical AI in the Public Sector: A Knowledge Transfer Partnership with MMU
We are thrilled to be embarking on a new Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University. The 18-month long project will explore the use of Artificial Intelligence technologies in the public sector and methodologies for assessing risks and ethical considerations. This will inform the development of an AI Assessment Tool, to help colleagues follow a best practice framework when adopting or deploying AI technologies. Ensuring that the opportunities and benefits of AI can be fully realised, in compliance with regulations and while understanding their risks and limitations.
Together we have recruited an associate, Irina Zanberova, to lead the project. Irina is working closely with the GMCA and MMU academics to connect academic research, knowledge and expertise with empirical public sector delivery. This will provide:
- Improved visibility of how current AI tools are used
- Improved knowledge and understanding of new technologies
- A better understanding of the impacts, risks and opportunities of AI technologies
- An AI assessment framework, informed by the above and drawing from existing best practice
- An AI assessment tool for use across the GMCA and GM partners
What is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership?
KTPs are government-backed initiatives designed to foster connections with academic institutions. They are part-funded through Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the UK’s innovation agency.
Innovate UK support these initiatives to enable models of practice to be shared nationally, so whilst a project lead by the GMCA, it will deliver outputs that are relevant to and could be adopted by other public sector organisations.
The project is managed and overseen through a Local Management Committee (LMC), which involves representatives from the GMCA, MMU and Innovate UK.
For further information about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships see, visit Innovate UK - Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (external website).
Alignment with the Greater Manchester Information Strategy
The AI KTP project aligns with our strategic priorities, demonstrating our dedication to continuous improvement and efficiency in public service delivery. We anticipate significant benefits for the GMCA and the communities we serve, bringing in fresh expertise and ideas to support the Greater Manchester Information Strategy and its vision:
“We will create a better information ecosystem that realises the full potential of information; manages, shares, and uses information responsibly; helps to tackle our most serious challenges; and supports Greater Manchester’s wider ambitions.”
The project supports the Missions of the Strategy, in particular Missions 2 and 5
2. Promote and maintain the responsible and ethical use of information
5. Develop and implement the tools, infrastructure and standards needed to manage and use information properly
This builds on top of previous work delivered under the Strategy, such as our Principles for Use of Automated Decision-Making Systems.
