Based on the success of last year’s edition, we are happy to launch the GESDA Youth and Anticipation Initiative 2023. In a bid to engage young minds and empower them to be active contributors to shaping our shared future, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between the potential of emerging scientific breakthroughs and the aspirations of the next generation.
A Journey of Exploration and Anticipation
Hosted by GESDA board member Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, the GESDA Youth and Anticipation Initiative is an outreach project that seeks to engage youth in conversations about the transformative potential of science and technology. Through this initiative, young voices are not only heard but play a central role in envisioning and shaping the future that lies ahead.
As part of the initiative, an open competition will identify young attendees who will be invited to participate in the GESDA Summit 2023, organized in Geneva in October.
In the previous year, the initiative involved a series of virtual engagements that brought together thought leaders from Africa and beyond, initiating conversations under the theme “Using the science of the future to shape your present”. Each session delved into one of the platforms of the GESDA Science Breakthrough Radar®, contextualized by African experts to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the continent.
This year’s edition will focus on the future of Artificial Intelligence in Africa and the opportunities and risks of advances in neurosciences. The sessions will take place via Zoom on August 15 and August 22. The competition guidelines will be announced during the webinars.
Save the dates, join us on Zoom (links below) and participate in the online discussion using #GESDAYouth
Session 1: The Future of AI: Why African Leadership Matters
Date: 15 August 2023
Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm (South Africa/Geneva)
Link to Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/s/88407593250
In this session, we will explore Africa’s growing role within the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Delve into the importance of addressing ethical, political and societal aspects of AI, tackling biases, and empowering young minds to contribute to this revolutionary field. Discover how AI is shaping Africa’s future and be part of this transformative journey.
The session will feature an engaging conversation between Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng and Dr. Vukosi Marivate, Chair of Data Science at the University of Pretoria.
Session 2: Opportunities and Challenges of Human Augmentation
Date:22 August 2023
Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm (South Africa/Geneva)
Link to Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/s/88407593250
In this session, we will explore the fields of neurotechnologies and human augmentation. The spotlight will be on the groundbreaking advancements, exploring both the potential medical applications and the ethical dilemmas they pose.