Frontier technologies for climate change

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

Emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, 5G, renewable energy and big data have a critical role to play in raising awareness of climate issues – and mitigating the impact of climate change. But the real source of optimism in the fight for sustainability is not the technology alone, according to this panel of experts from industry and international organizations. It …

Spotlight on Ghana

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

Ghana’s Minster for Communications, Ursual Owusu-Ekuful, welcomed a busy group of dignitaries and visitors to the Ghana Pavilion for the On Digital Spotlight today.  She spoke about the important links between Ghana, Africa and the world and said that Ghana’s success is built on digital infrastructure, skills and connectivity.  She invited the world to take a closer look at Ghana.  …

EQUALS winners continue activities at ITU Telecom World 2019

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

Continuing their busy programme of activities, the EQUALS delegation today enjoyed a full day of masterclasses and workshops as part of the SME programme of ITU Telecom World.  Topics from Impostor Syndrome, How to Access to Finance, Impact investment and Intellectual property were the core of the programme during the day.  In addition, a mentoring session was offered to the …

Diversity by design: mitigating gender bias in AI

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

As the presence – and influence – of AI systems continues to grow throughout society, how can we ensure that we do not increase digital gender inequality? Can we design with diversity, and can we remove bias. These were the questions explored by diverse expert panel and engaged audience moderated by Tim Unwin, Emeritus Professor of Geography and Chairholder of …

Historic charter signed to help disaster relief

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

In 2016, 300 million people around the world were affected by natural disasters.  Sharing technology and resources between countries helps improve the effectiveness of any response.  As Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau, ITU, said, “in disaster and emergency situations technology saves lives.” Today, at an event hosted by EMEA Satellite Operators Association (ESOA), ​representatives from governments and industry gathered to …

Korean Start-ups on show at ITU Telecom World 2019

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

From pet health monitoring and a smart treasure hunt to drone-based street mapping and an indoor screen sports system, visitors to the Korea Startup Pavilion were able to discover a host of trailblazing innovations from the country’s rich tech startup ecosystem. Visitors were able to sharpen their target practice skills by hitting colourful balloons with balls as they scrolled up …

Ceremony of Recognition and Appreciation

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

ITU, national delegations, industry leaders and SMEs came together for a high-profile ceremony honouring ITU Telecom’s long-term supporters, major partners, National and Thematic Pavilions. ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao issued Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of this invaluable support from countries, companies and individuals from around the world, as well as Recognition of Excellence awards to the best innovative exhibitors within …

Are you listening, Alexa? Security in connected devices

Digital World 2019 Daily Highlights Day 3

Are you listening Alexa? Yes! And so are Siri, Google Home, and all our other smart home and smartphone devices. What’s more, they are listening consistently and cleverly, gathering vast amounts of data, too. Properly used, according to keynote speaker Kemal Huseinovic, Chief of the Digital Networks & Society Department, ITU, this data could enhance quality of life, but it …