Innovation for smarter digital development | Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD)

Thousands of experts from around the world will be convening 10-13 September at the Durban International Convention Centre in South Africa for ITU Telecom World 2018, where they will debate “Innovation for smarter digital development." The event is organized annually by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technology (ICT).

The event brings together a together a unique audience of public and private sectors from emerging and developed markets including heads of state and government, ministers, regulators, industry CEOs and experts, investors, SME representatives, heads of UN and other international organizations, digital thinkers, media, academia and consultants.

The ITU Telecom World 2018 programme will feature many sessions including:

Digital everyone: What innovative technologies, hybrid solutions, and funding partnerships can provide meaningful connectivity, relevant local content and digital services for all?
Leapfrogging to 5G: Can new technologies enable emerging markets to develop rapidly, by-passing the legacy networks, outdated regulatory frameworks and business models elsewhere?
The future telco: revolution or evolution? How can telcos exploit their traditional assets in the smart age, focus future investment, establish new roles or markets and attract new talent?
Rethinking Broadband – from national asset to civic right: Examining how broadband is viewed both as a strategic national asset and increasingly as a civic right.
Rise of the MVNOs – leveraging MVNOs in an 'everything connected' world: Exploring the cross-overs between mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) and various verticals including banking, utilities, agriculture, transport and smart cities.
Wireless technologies for Africa – the opportunities ahead: Is satellite, with other technologies, the ideal option to drive connectivity, digital inclusion and smart services uptake throughout Africa?
AI – impact and ownership: How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the data it generates be managed or regulated – and how can we prepare governments, societies and individuals for the economic singularity?

In addition to the Forum programme, ITU Telecom World 2018 includes:

Global exhibition of digital technology solutions and investment opportunities, including national and thematic pavilions from across the globe plus independent stands from world-leading corporates and high-growth small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
ITU Telecom World Awards, celebrating innovative ICT initiatives with real social impact, for corporations, governments and SMEs – with a special SME programme to support business growth.
High-level networking events and networking app, plus dedicated business match-making services.

Learn more about the ITU Telecom World 2018.

Source: ITU