Connect with us

Technology

80% of Employees Want to Use AI More Than Their Jobs Allow

Published

on

The “Activation Gap” could be leaving trillions in potential global economic gains unrealized, according to new research from Cognizant

TEANECK, N.J., Oct. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A new Cognizant workplace study has identified what researchers are calling the “Activation Gap”: a wide and largely invisible divide between how much employees believe AI can enable them in their work and how much their jobs allow them to use it. In “New Frontiers, New Frictions: Mapping the DNA of AI Adoption,” the findings suggest that the biggest barrier to AI’s economic promise is translating employee willingness into effective adoption. Customization, integration and context engineering can help to close that gap.

The stakes are significant. Cognizant researchers estimate that a uniform 5% increase in global labor productivity could add roughly $6 trillion to world GDP, nearly the equivalent of adding an economy the size of Japan’s. Closing the Activation Gap is a potential path towards capturing some of that value and supporting the corresponding wage growth that frequently accompanies GDP increases. Moreover, workers’ understanding of and belief in the improved productivity that AI can deliver is an early indicator of the potential for success.

“Our research finds that people are ahead of their employers,” said Ravi Kumar S, Chief Executive Officer of Cognizant. “Willingness is the hardest part of any technology shift, and it’s already in hand. What’s ahead is the work of context: shaping tools to the rules, the workflows and the execution patterns of how a particular team gets things done. Context-specific tools perform where generic ones stall. That’s the work we do with clients every day, and it’s the opportunity in front of every company right now.”

Eager adopters: Four out of five employees say they want to use AI more than their current job permits.The human factor: Disposition— meaning how a person relates to technology, risk and work itself—is roughly six times more predictive of AI behavior than where they sit in the organizational hierarchy.Navigators and Stalwarts: 72% of workers fall into two archetypes, meaning they represent the highest-leverage opportunity: a targeted intervention aimed at these two groups alone could move the needle for the majority of a company’s workforce. Navigators are willing AI users held back by organizational barriers, while Stalwarts are looking for a clear reason and business case to adopt AI.Poor tool fit: Up to 82% say their current AI tools don’t fit their needs. 33% of Accelerators, power users who log the heaviest AI use, and Architects, the fastest-adopting employees, point to missing context and lack of customization as the top factor limiting their AI use.

Across every employee archetype, between 72% and 82% say their current AI tools don’t meet their needs. Even Precisionists, highly active AI users and the most satisfied group in the study, reported only 28% satisfaction with their tools. In other words, the group that likes its AI tools the most still has roughly three unhappy employees for every satisfied employee.

Cognizant President – Americas, Surya Gummadi, said, “dissatisfaction with workplace AI tools isn’t confined to skeptics or newcomers. It’s a near-universal experience, cutting across employees who are highly engaged with AI and those who are not. We partner with our clients to identify and implement the AI solutions best designed to drive their business results. And our experience across thousands of activations, combined with this new research, aims to help us deliver at scale for even the largest organizations.”

The study also found a gap in how AI training is delivered and received. Among Architects, 81% rate their training as effective, and 83% complete it. Among Holdouts, the group least inclined to use AI, those numbers drop to 56% effectiveness and 53% completion.

The training gap doesn’t fully explain the satisfaction gap. Architects receive the most effective, most completed training and 87% say they turn to unsanctioned tools when their approved options fall short. These are two separate problems: training isn’t reaching everyone equally, and even where it lands well, the underlying tools still aren’t meeting people’s needs.

Taken together, Cognizant’s findings point to a workforce that is more willing, and more ready, to work with AI than most organizations currently assume. Giving employees access to context-specific tools and training to match is the clearest path to closing the Activation Gap and delivering increased real world business results using AI.

“For the technology to unlock the roughly $6 trillion in potential GDP growth that AI could provide, companies must simultaneously provide context-specific tools to a receptive employee base while also improving their training programs to customize them for different personas and increase their effectiveness at producing real results,” added Kumar S.

About Cognizant
Cognizant is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

For more information, contact:

Jeff DeMarrais
SVP, Global Marketing & Chief Communications Officer
Jeff.DeMarrais@cognizant.com

Alex Dudley
Alex.Dudley@cognizant.com

Katrina Cheung
Katrina.Cheung@cognizant.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/80-of-employees-want-to-use-ai-more-than-their-jobs-allow-302903244.html

SOURCE Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation

Continue Reading

Technology

YCYW Global Campuses Celebrate 2026 Founder’s Day: Ninety-Four Years of Educational Dedication: Rooted Deep, Reaching Far

Published

on

By

HONG KONG, Oct. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Yew Chung Yew Wah Education Network (YCYW) celebrated the annual Founder’s Day across its campuses worldwide, honouring the outstanding contribution of founder Madam Tsang Chor-hang to education. 2026 marks the 94th anniversary of YCYW, as well as the 25th anniversary of Yew Chung International School of Chongqing (YCIS Chongqing).

During the celebrations, YCYW officially launched its new core educational slogan —Rooted Deep, Reaching Far, with YCIS Chongqing serving as the main venue and campuses worldwide connected via a virtual gathering.

For ninety-four years, YCYW has upheld its philosophy of integrating Chinese and Western educational traditions, committed to aligning with science and technology; culture and arts; and love and charity, and striving to nurture future talent who possess international competitiveness, social responsibility, robust foundation, diverse capability and a strong sense of self.

New Educational Slogan “Rooted Deep, Reaching Far” Officially Launched

At the anniversary ceremony, Dr Betty Chan Po-king, Chief Executive Officer and School Supervisor of YCYW, joined numerous guests in witnessing the official launch of the new slogan, “Rooted Deep, Reaching Far”.

Meanwhile, Dr Chan elaborated on the concept of “Rooted Deep, Reaching Far”: “Rooted Deep” refers to laying a solid and profound foundation for every student’s growth, with the integration of Chinese and Western educational philosophies at its core. “Reaching Far” means enabling students, on the basis of that strong foundation, to move confidently into the wider world, equipped with the resilience and capability to navigate it and face the future. Only when roots are deep can one reach far; and when one reaches far, one never forgets the roots.

“Rooted Deep, Reaching Far” comprises an overarching educational aim, three content pillars and a foundation of trust. The overarching aim is clear and unwavering: to empower children with strong roots, essential capabilities, and self-identity, equipping them to go further and navigate an unpredictable and rapidly evolving future.

Responding directly to the tensions and choices many families face today, the three content pillars are:

Strong Academic Foundations, Holistic Development;East–West Integration, Harmony in Diversity; andEnduring Legacy, Future-Ready Vision

Supporting this aim is a substantial foundation of trust: nearly a century of educational heritage, continuous renewal across three generations of educators, a global education network, cross-campus systematic programmes, and stable staffing and governance. Together, these form an educational choice that has earned the trust of generations of families.

YCIS Chongqing: Twenty-Five Years Rooted in the Mountain City

This year’s Founder’s Day is especially significant, as YCIS Chongqing celebrates its 25th anniversary. Over the past 25 years, the school has grown from a seed into a tree, witnessing the development of international education in Chongqing.

In her opening address, Dr Chan shared the story of Declan, a 15-year-old YCIS Chongqing student. This summer, Declan made a striking appearance at the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society Annual Meeting in Japan, becoming the youngest presenter at the entire conference. From AI models for identifying Martian impact craters to comparisons of errors across algorithms, he engaged in confident and assured dialogue with global experts. His academic confidence and rigour, remarkable for his age, are a shining outcome of YCYW’s Seeds for Tomorrow initiatives.

“Declan’s story shows us the kind of students YCYW nurtures: confident, rigorous, internationally minded, and unafraid to make their voices heard on the world stage. This is precisely the fruit of the educational philosophy we have upheld for decades,” said Dr Chan.

As a leading international school in the region, YCIS Chongqing provides education from early childhood through to the upper secondary for students from around the world. The Founder’s Day this year is not only a celebration of one campus’ twenty-five-year journey, but also a vivid example of YCYW’s long-standing commitment to educational development across the Chinese mainland.

Towards the Centenary, We Have Already Set Out

Looking ahead to its centenary, YCYW has already begun the journey. In six years’ time, YCYW will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Permanent campuses in Yantai Bajiaowan and Shanghai Lingang are currently under active development. In the 2028–2029 academic year, Yew Wah School of Hong Kong will officially open, becoming the first school in the Hong Kong SAR to offer the Chinese National Curriculum with international education approaches. It will provide educational continuity for students moving between Hong Kong SAR and the Chinese mainland, allowing the founding aspiration of “Honouring China” to take on renewed relevance in a new era.

Chongqing, as the starting point of the China–Europe Railway Express, has long been a key region connecting China with Eurasia. As China actively encourages enterprises to expand globally, YCYW is aligning with the national strategy by welcoming more international students to study in China and extending its educational programmes and philosophy overseas, serving as a bridge between China and the world.

Seeds for Tomorrow: The Educational Engine for the Future

At the ceremony, Dr Christopher Hurley, Director for Science, Technology, and Educational Futures, shared the latest initiatives of the Educational Futures division. Through the Seeds for Tomorrow initiatives, YCYW responds to the contemporary question of how students should be educated in an age shaped by artificial intelligence.

The Seeds for Tomorrow initiatives extend learning beyond the classroom. In partnership with leading universities and research institutions, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Oxford Suzhou Centre for Advanced Research, Tongji University, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and The University of Hong Kong, students engage in project-based learning centred on real-world challenges. They may take part in Oxford laboratory placements, architecture studios, entrepreneurship incubators, immersive medical projects and underwater robotics challenges, as well as advanced camps in marine science and engineering and the ChinaOne experiential learning programme. Guided by scientists and industry experts, students identify research topics based on their interests and clarify their academic direction through practice.

“Yew Yew and Dinosaurs Run” Tours YCYW Campuses

Meanwhile, the annual YCYW charity event, Dinosaur Charity Run, has returned. Launched in 2022, the event brings together parents, students and the wider community to provide scholarships for students pursuing early childhood education and support for families in need. Starting this year, Yew Yew, the YCYW mascot, joins the Dinosaur Charity Run team, visiting every YCYW campus to create an enjoyable and educational day for all.

Ninety-Four Years: Carrying Forward the Legacy, Writing the Next Chapter

The 94th anniversary marks an important milestone in YCYW’s development and lays a new foundation for its centenary mission. The network now has more than 30,000 alumni worldwide.

From Hong Kong to the Chinese mainland, and from China to the world, YCYW continues to uphold its “Three Alliances”: Aligning with Science and Technology, Culture and Arts, and Love and Charity. Amid an era of profound change, YCYW will forge ahead, continuously advancing its educational service system and promoting synergistic development across its campuses, while providing innovative support for the development of globally minded future talent.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/ycyw-global-campuses-celebrate-2026-founders-day-ninety-four-years-of-educational-dedication-rooted-deep-reaching-far-302903591.html

SOURCE Yew Chung Yew Wah Education Network

Continue Reading

Technology

In HelloNation, Real Estate Expert Pam McGovern Explains Choosing a Real Estate Agent and What Buyers Should Consider

Published

on

By

The article highlights how experience, communication, and local market knowledge help buyers select the right professional to guide their purchase.

MOUNTAIN TOP, Pa., Oct. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ –What should buyers look for when choosing a real estate agent in Mountain Top, Pennsylvania? According to a HelloNation article, choosing a real estate agent involves evaluating experience, communication style, and knowledge of the local real estate market before beginning the home search.

The HelloNation article, featuring insights from Real Estate Expert Pam McGovern of Classic Properties, explains that selecting the right professional can significantly influence how smoothly a home purchase progresses. An experienced agent helps buyers navigate property listings, negotiations, inspections, and paperwork while offering guidance throughout the transaction process.

Experience is one of the most important qualities buyers should evaluate. The article notes that professionals who frequently handle Luzerne County homes understand pricing trends, average time properties remain on the market, and neighborhood differences that affect value. This knowledge helps buyers identify areas offering strong value and avoid potential challenges in certain neighborhoods.

Reviewing an agent’s past transactions is another recommended step when choosing a real estate agent. The article explains that buyers should ask about recent sales in their preferred neighborhoods and discuss how the agent approaches negotiations. Understanding how an agent handles price discussions, repair requests, or multiple offers can provide insight into their strategy and ability to advocate for clients.

The article also emphasizes the importance of communication. Buyers benefit from agents who respond promptly, explain complex information clearly, and keep clients informed throughout each stage of the process. A responsive professional can help buyers better understand contracts, financing options, and inspection reports, making the experience less overwhelming.

Referrals and online reviews can provide additional insight into the performance of real estate agents in Mountain Top, PA. Recommendations from friends, family members, or past clients often reveal consistent strengths or weaknesses. Online feedback may also highlight patterns in professionalism, responsiveness, and overall client satisfaction.

Understanding the local real estate market is another essential factor. The article explains that professionals familiar with Mountain Top, PA homes for sale can provide context for pricing differences between neighborhoods, trends in property values, and shifts in buyer demand. This expertise allows buyers to evaluate listings more effectively and make informed decisions during the home search.

The article notes that experienced agents often bring valuable professional networks to the transaction. Connections with lenders, inspectors, contractors, and title companies can help coordinate the many steps involved in purchasing Luzerne County homes. These relationships may streamline scheduling and reduce delays during inspections, appraisals, and closing.

Interviewing multiple candidates is another strategy highlighted in the article. Buyers are encouraged to ask questions about recent transactions, negotiation approaches, and familiarity with specific neighborhoods. Observing how an agent listens and responds during these conversations can reveal whether their communication style aligns with the buyer’s expectations.

Personal comfort and trust also play an important role when selecting among Mountain Top, PA real estate agents. Purchasing a home is both a financial and emotional decision. Buyers benefit from working with professionals who listen carefully, offer guidance, and maintain clear communication throughout the process.

The article concludes that careful research helps buyers make confident decisions when choosing a real estate agent. Evaluating experience, reviewing past sales, considering referrals, and interviewing multiple professionals can provide valuable insight. Buyers who work with knowledgeable agents familiar with Luzerne County homes often gain a clearer understanding of the process and greater confidence from the first showing through closing.

How Do You Choose the Right Real Estate Agent in Mountain Top, PA? features insights from Pam McGovern, Real Estate Expert of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-hellonation-real-estate-expert-pam-mcgovern-explains-choosing-a-real-estate-agent-and-what-buyers-should-consider-302903608.html

SOURCE HelloNation

Continue Reading

Technology

ROBOTERA Tops Embodied AI Benchmark RoboDojo Without Additional Data or Agent RSI

Published

on

By

BEIJING, Oct. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ROBOTERA’s World Action Model (WAM), VPP2 (Video Prediction Policy 2), has ranked No. 1 on RoboDojo without additional data or agent-based reinforcement self-improvement (Agent RSI). Developed by the University of Hong Kong’s MMLab in collaboration with nearly 20 leading academic institutions worldwide, RoboDojo is a rigorous benchmark for general-purpose robot manipulation that evaluates performance across challenging simulation and real-world tasks, going beyond simple demonstrations.

VPP2 achieved an average success rate of 32.26% and an average score of 39.26, ranking first in Generalization, Precision, and Memory among evaluated methods.

ROBOTERA has open-sourced VPP2 on GitHub, with further details available on the project website.

Building a More Generalizable World Action Model

VPP2 enables robots to better predict how actions will change their surroundings and translate instructions into physical movements. Unlike video models designed primarily to generate visual content, VPP2 is trained to understand object movements and follow precise manipulation instructions. It combines video prediction with action generation, helping robots perform tasks more reliably across different objects, environments, and scenarios.

For complex tasks involving multiple steps, VPP2 can also work with a vision-language model (VLM) that breaks down high-level instructions into smaller, executable actions.

Validated Across Simulation and Real-World Tasks

VPP2 was evaluated across video prediction, instruction following, and robotic manipulation tasks.

On the ALOHA platform, VPP2 achieved a 58.5% average success rate across 10 task categories, outperforming leading baselines in nine. It also achieved 45.0% on LIBERO-Pro, a benchmark for robotic manipulation and generalization. With high-level task planning, average success rates across five task groups more than doubled, from 27.6% to 57.6%.

These results demonstrate VPP2’s ability to connect visual understanding, instruction following, and physical action, advancing general-purpose robotics toward practical applications.

From Research Breakthroughs to Real-World Deployment

VPP2 marks ROBOTERA’s fourth benchmark championship in embodied intelligence in 2026, following top results at World Arena, Benjie’s Humanoid Olympic Games, and RoboChallenge. Combined with ongoing humanoid-robot deployments with China Post and SF Express across more than 10 logistics centers in China, these achievements reflect ROBOTERA’s progress in both advancing general-purpose robot intelligence and bringing it into real-world applications.

Building on its advances in world-action modeling and real-world deployment experience, ROBOTERA is working to make general-purpose robots reliable partners in everyday work.

SOURCE ROBOTERA

Continue Reading

Trending