XXIII InfoPoverty World Conference
Published: Thursday, August 8, 2024
Dr. Biscoe was an invited speaker for the 23rd InfoPoverty World Conference, held on April 12, 2024, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, focused on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on society, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and various global conflicts. The conference addressed the theme "AI turmoil’s digital processes: How to act to ensure human rights and provide e-welfare for all?"
Accompanying Dr. Biscoe at the 23rd InfoPoverty World Conference was Mr. Jeffry Williams, the Founder and CEO of Worldwide Tech Connections in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Williams was also an invited speaker. His company is a technology partner with the University of Oklahoma Outreach.
Dr. Biscoe's presentation focused on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals established by the United Nations in 2015. They are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aimed at ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved by 2030. Sustainable Development Goals include targets such as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Clean Water and Sanitation, Gender Equality, etc.
She highlighted AI's capacity to enhance efficiency, innovation, and decision-making across various sectors, including healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation. Dr. Biscoe emphasized the importance of ethical AI development and governance, advocating for transparency, inclusivity, and accountability to ensure that AI benefits are equitably distributed and do not exacerbate existing inequalities.
Mr. Jeffry Williams, who accompanied Dr. Biscoe to the United Nations created Worldwide Tech Connections to provide fast and accurate translation of languages to a new and unique platform to bring an abundance of beneļ¬ts to the world. He has developed groundbreaking AI tools that are set to revolutionize the way we overcome language barriers. These tools don't just represent a step forward in technology; they embody our collective dream of a world where information and opportunities are accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Their primary objective is to cultivate equitable communication channels both within the academic sphere and across the global stage. By fostering multilingual discussions that transcend geographical and cultural borders, they are not merely facilitating dialogue but laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future.
Mr. Williams emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide and promoting universal access to information. His presentation focused on the transformative potential of new information and communication technologies (ICT) in reducing language barriers and fostering inclusivity in the digital society. Key highlights of his presentation included:
1. Linguistic Diversity and Universal Access: Williams underscored how ICT can enhance linguistic diversity, making information more accessible to people worldwide. He argued that this is crucial for fostering a truly inclusive digital society.
2. Innovations in ICT: He highlighted various technological advancements that are reducing barriers to information access, such as real-time translation services and tools that democratize access to digital resources.
3. Digital Inclusivity: Williams stressed the need for policies and initiatives that ensure marginalized communities are not left behind in the digital revolution. He called for international cooperation to create a more equitable digital landscape.
These points were part of a broader discussion on how AI and digital technologies can be harnessed to achieve sustainable development goals, improve living conditions, and support the eradication of poverty and hunger.