In today’s world, we are facing unprecedented global crises that have highlighted the urgent need for sustainable development. The United Nations (UN) has set out 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030, and it is clear that traditional approaches will not be enough to meet these ambitious targets. That’s where Gen AI comes in.
Gen AI refers to the generation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems that are designed and developed by young people, particularly those from underrepresented communities. These individuals bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, making them crucial players in accelerating SDG progress amid global crises.
Recognizing this potential, Accenture and UN recently collaborated on a report titled “Gen AI: Accelerating Sustainable Development through Youth-led Innovation.” This report highlights how Gen AI can contribute towards achieving the SDGs while also addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by our society today.
The Role of Gen AI in Achieving SDGs
According to the report, there are three key ways in which Gen AI can accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs:
1. Addressing Inequality: One of the main goals of sustainable development is reducing inequality within and among countries. However, traditional approaches often overlook marginalized communities’ needs and fail to address systemic inequalities effectively. With their diverse backgrounds and experiences, young people involved in developing Gen AI solutions can identify these gaps and create more inclusive solutions.
2. Driving Innovation: As digital natives who have grown up with technology at their fingertips, young people possess a unique understanding of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. They can leverage this knowledge to develop innovative solutions that address complex societal issues such as climate change or poverty.
3. Amplifying Voices: The voices of youth are often unheard when it comes to decision-making processes related to sustainable development policies or initiatives. By involving them in creating Gen AI solutions for specific challenges faced by their communities or regions, their voices can be amplified, and their perspectives can be taken into account.
The Impact of Gen AI in the Face of Global Crises
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to address global crises. The report highlights how Gen AI can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of such crises on achieving the SDGs:
1. Enhancing Resilience: With their digital skills and knowledge, young people involved in developing Gen AI solutions can help build more resilient communities that are better equipped to handle future crises.
2. Tackling Disinformation: In times of crisis, misinformation and fake news spread rapidly, making it challenging to disseminate accurate information. By using AI-powered tools, young people can identify and combat disinformation effectively.
3. Supporting Remote Learning: As schools around the world have closed due to the pandemic, remote learning has become essential for students’ education continuity. However, not all students have access to necessary resources like computers or internet connectivity at home. Gen AI solutions can bridge this gap by providing innovative ways for students from underprivileged backgrounds to access quality education remotely.
Accenture’s Commitment towards Empowering Youth through Technology
As a leading global professional services company committed to driving innovation and sustainability, Accenture recognizes the potential of youth-led innovation in accelerating progress towards achieving sustainable development goals.
Through its Skills To Succeed program, Accenture is empowering millions of young people worldwide with digital skills training opportunities that will enable them to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital economy actively.
Moreover, as part of its Corporate Citizenship initiatives focused on building a more inclusive society for all individuals regardless of race or gender identity/sexual orientation (LGBTQ+), Accenture is also investing in programs that support diverse talent pipelines within STEM fields – including those related specifically toward artificial intelligence – so that we may create an even stronger foundation upon which our collective futures may rest.”
In conclusion,
Gen AI presents an exciting opportunity to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs while also addressing global crises. By involving young people in developing AI solutions, we can create a more inclusive and innovative approach to sustainable development. Accenture’s collaboration with UN on the “Gen AI: Accelerating Sustainable Development through Youth-led Innovation” report is just one example of how companies are recognizing and harnessing this potential.
As we continue to navigate these challenging times, it is crucial that we prioritize investing in our youth and empowering them with the necessary skills and resources to shape a better future for all. Let us embrace Gen AI as a powerful tool for accelerating SDG progress amid global crises.
