The ninth annual United Nations Science, Technology, and Innovation Forum convened at the UN headquarters in New York, focusing on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Keynotes from notable figures such as Dennis Francis, Li Junhua, and Tshilidzi Marwala highlighted the importance of innovative solutions to achieve the 2030 Agenda. A key highlight was the DigiBridge side event, organized by the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA), which aimed to address the global talent and skill gap and enable developing countries to leverage digital technologies for sustainable growth.
The DigiBridge program, introduced by Peter Major and Muhammadu MO Kah, offers a comprehensive educational platform for individuals at all levels, from college students to industry leaders. The program aims to bridge the global digital skills gap by providing advanced training in digital technologies. Yale Li of WDTA introduced the ‘DigiBridge Digital Talent Development Program, emphasizing the role of innovative educational solutions, particularly AI-driven training programs, in shaping a resilient digital economy.
Tshilidzi Marwala highlighted the potential of generative AI in education, stressing the importance of an ethical approach to its application. Industry leaders like Naria K from Microsoft Philanthropies and Dr. Carl L. Miller from the AI Procurement Lab discussed the transformative impact of AI on the workplace and the need for cross-cutting education to support AI use cases.
Academic contributions from Professor Ryan of the University of Queensland and Professor Hao of Shantou University demonstrated the synergy between AI advancements and education. The collaborative nature of the DigiBridge program, as highlighted by Melan Xustated, invites partnership opportunities with governments, corporations, and NGOs to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth in the digital economy.
The success of the DigiBridge side event at the 2024 UN STI Forum showcases the importance of international collaboration in addressing digital challenges. The event underscored the crucial role of multilateral cooperation in promoting digital education equity and inclusive growth. By fostering partnerships and leveraging collective strengths, the DigiBridge program aims to ensure universal access to digital technology and contribute to sustainable development goals.
In summary, the UN STI Forum highlighted the significance of deploying innovative solutions and fostering international collaboration to accelerate the achievements of the 2030 Agenda. The DigiBridge program stands out as a leading global initiative in digital talent development, offering a platform for lifelong learning and skill enhancement. Through continued partnerships and collaborative efforts, the program aims to bridge the global digital gap and create opportunities for all individuals to thrive in the digital economy.
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