Reflections from #DRIF24: Shaping a Human-Centered Digital Future
When we discuss the development of Artificial Intelligence the world over, let’s not merely talk about ethics but prioritize human rights as our guiding principle. And in Africa, humanity must remain at the forefront of our technological advancements! Ubuntu together now and always.
At DRIF24, amidst the vibrant exchange of ideas and insights, I was seeking answers to my concerns working with thousands of university students in Nigeria, and the now encroachment of artificial intelligence (AI) tools into the realm of cognitive and creative thinking skills of my students. While efficiency is commendable, I feared it might breed complacency among my students. To my relief, I discovered a shared concern among fellow academics, educators, and professionals alike.
The solution emerged not as a rejection of technology, but rather as a reorientation of its purpose. We resolved to foster critical thinking by engaging students in conversations around AI-generated work, turning assignments into opportunities for meaningful dialogue and peer review in the classroom, via presentations to the faculty members and in some other cases as a mere class discussion amongst peers in a round table to spark original thoughts and ideas.
Indeed, it sounds like more work, but it’s the fulfilling responsibility we’ve embraced in nurturing the minds of tomorrow. The message to the academic community is clear: AI is a tool to enhance, not replace human ingenuity and effort. It’s about becoming more clinical, efficient, and productive, not passive consumers of automated solutions and I hope we leverage it for what it is and not become overly reliant.
#DRIF24 also underscored the pivotal role of civic societies in “Unpacking meaningful content creation in Nigeria” particularly in the rapidly growing monetization digital landscape. The Guru Innovative hub led by Oyo Effiom, is leading collaborative efforts with the Impact Foundation for Youths Development (IFYD), businesses, and other critical stakeholders, aiming to provide support for content creators to create meaningful content to entertain and inform the general population, thus addressing pressing social issues in local communities. Basically, content creation for social impact! Where we will also “delve” into sharing tips on how best to engage with content generally while remaining productive amidst all of the endless content as you scroll your day away.
The third thing I spent time thinking about at #DRIF24 was how to ensure that emerging technologies are human-centered and do not take away livelihood from humans. As we delve deeper into the realms of emerging technologies, the imperative of ensuring human-centered innovation resonates profoundly. The future of AI must not eclipse human livelihoods; rather, it should empower humans and uplift marginalized communities. Our initiatives with the Paradigm Initiative through the #LIFELegacy Program and the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Youth Committee stand as a testament to our commitment to promoting digital rights, inclusion, and online safety.
Let’s forge a future where technology serves everyone equitably, where knowledge is shared, and inclusion reigns supreme. A digital world that reflects the richness and diversity of humanity.
Ubuntu is an ancient African word meaning ‘humanity to others’. It is often described as reminding us that ‘I am what I am because of who we all are’. We bring the spirit of Ubuntu to the world of computers and software.
#HumanCenteredTech #AIAfrica #DigitalInclusion #AIforGood #Africa
