Tech For Good: Harnessing Technology for Social Impact

In a world marked by rapid technological advancements, integrating digital tools and solutions has deeply impacted various facets of our lives. The pressing question is, how do we harness this digital prowess to channel positive Social Impact? Are the innovations in the digital space all-inclusive?

We had a Renaissance master class where we discussed the lessons emerging leaders got from the Renaissance era. The masterclass paved the way for us to discuss ways to harness technology for social impact. Our speakers for the day, Esther Mwaniki-founder and CEO at Lapid Leader Africa, Celestine Ukpere-director Startup Grind Kajiado, and Charles Simba, a technology advisor, helped us to dissect the topic. In this article, we’ll explore how technology is making a difference in society to shape a better tomorrow and explore strategies for utilizing it to create a better tomorrow.

The Digital Renaissance and its Impact

The Renaissance was a bridge between the Middle and current civilizations, and artwork played a big role in documenting the period. Many innovations were seen and continued to improve with time, sparking technological advancements.

Technology is here to stay, and we have to be agile enough to adapt to this VUCA world and leverage it to drive significant social impact.

We delved into harnessing technology for social change in the Renaissance masterclass series.

When we hear about India, the high population with poverty and the country with the most Cancer treatment centers come to mind. Well, this is a country that has embraced innovation as its revolutionary aspect.

India has made social protection more accessible to 415 million people through digital tools. This has been made possible through digital catalysts:

• Aadhar and UPI enable the government to integrate their citizens’ data and payment systems, enabling them to distribute services to the citizens based on the data. The payment systems enable them to transact efficiently.
• I Got Garbage, where there is the integration of waste management
• Common farms where farmers are supported to get their produce to the market in a well-managed system.

These are very progressive digital revolutions. These systems come with challenges that could be dangerous, such as data manipulation. Exclusivity could exist when only a few people understand and embrace the innovations.

• Technology is advancing daily, and the question is, are we ready for the advancements and their implications in our lives?
• Should we make social sciences the first degree to help us understand the moral and ethical background of technologies such as AI?

How Do We Use Technology To Ignite Purpose-Driven Impact?

Well, it is not a must that you become a technician in IT. We all have different areas we are passionate about and our purpose in life. All aspects of life can be advanced using technology.

Leveraging Tech for Social Impact
As much as we mean good for the people, we need to involve them in the decision-making and consider their contribution. A pilot project is crucial before launching it for the communities. Khan Academy is an example of a project created to benefit learners and educators and saw the bigger picture of leveraging technology for many people.

Embracing Ethical Tech Practices
Many times, ethics are overlooked. This is an issue that is very critical in technological advancements, especially in this error of cybercrime.

Safeguarding user privacy, preventing biases, and maintaining transparency is something that’s overlooked at times. An example is the world coin issue that’s currently trending, which raises many issues in the country. Inclusivity is an area that should be considered. Are the physically challenged incorporated? We’ve seen the Tesla car incorporate AI in the automation, but the racial profiling of people was not incorporated. They have also leveraged the reviews given to make future car advancements. We need to look at both sides of the coin and ensure equity and inclusivity in the future advancement of technology. The laws and privacy policies should also be considered.

Nurturing Purpose-Driven Tech Careers
It is essential to understand that nurturing purpose-driven tech careers goes beyond traditional career paths in the technology industry. It involves creating an ecosystem where tech professionals flourish while staying true to their values and making a meaningful impact in society.

Continuous professional development opportunities should be explored for the empowerment of individuals. It is also important to align an organization’s mission with individual values, encourage tech-for-good initiatives, and acknowledge exceptional contributions. Transitioning into purpose-driven tech roles begins with self-discovery and identifying personal values.
Exploring innovation in different areas changes your mindset. You get to understand the social impact that various people are making in their communities. You also get ideas of how you can make an impact in your area of expertise.

How Can Young Leaders Leverage Technology?

The digital skill gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity. By 2030, 650 million workers need to be trained or retrained for digital skills to meet the digital skills demand in the continent. Young people growing up in the digital era are best positioned to bridge this gap.

By 2030, approximately 230 million jobs across the continent will require digital skills. Are we ready for this?

There have been gradual innovations in the country that have significantly changed our country.

The COVID-19 pandemic is one challenge that has made us experience the potential of technological advancements. Learning, working, business, events, and many other activities were conducted digitally.

How can we help young people acquire digital skills and leverage them?

1. Digital skills training- Training does not necessarily need to be learnt physically. YouTube and other platforms have become the new teachers for many. You can watch videos and become a pro in your specialization.
2. Develop low-cost technologies – We can reach a broader audience by developing low-cost technologies that enable even the common citizens to understand and advance in technology.
3. Advocate for change – Using voice to trigger the discussion and awareness of technology and its actualization in society. Champion for programs that create positive social impact.
4. Mainstream commercial technologies in agriculture, education, health, etc. This ensures that more individuals feel the impact by advancing their social well-being.

There are many opportunities in the digital space; proactiveness is needed to leverage the technology. Consider how technology can be applied in your area of expertise or a field you’re trying to navigate. It’s all about practice and willingness to consistently learn and advance.

• While using technology, are you creating solutions or more problems?
• Are you advancing as technology evolves and thinking about improvements to existing ones?

Technology’s impact on society is indisputable, and the ability to channel its potential for positive change is a responsibility that must be embraced. Explore technology’s endless possibilities, and remember that your contribution can shape a brighter future. This is just a fraction of the discussion; learn more here.

This article has been written by Faith Muthoni.