With new technologies come new questions. There is always an underlying fear about the effects these technologies may have on our world. One such fear surrounded Generative AI tools in 2023, especially with the rise of tools like ChatGPT 4. Concerns ranged from data privacy to the dystopian idea of machines becoming too powerful. Although AI is making waves, skepticism around tech tools, their developers, and regulators remains.
The role of regulators in the tech landscape is critical but often criticised. They are expected to protect citizens from exploitative or invasive developments, yet there is skepticism about their willingness or ability to regulate technology effectively.
A gap remains between the end user, developers, regulators, and the communities they serve. Emerging technologies often carry a sense of mystery, which is why forums like the Civic Tech Innovation Forum (#UnderTheHood) are essential. This gathering offers a platform for open dialogue between tech developers, enthusiasts, lawmakers, and academics to learn, collaborate, and share their knowledge.
At this year’s Civic Tech Innovation Forum, themed #UnderTheHood, the objective is to break down the barriers between tech users, developers, and regulators. “By fostering open dialogue, we can work together to harness the power of technology for a more equitable and democratic future,” said Mqondisi Mavundla, Programme Coordinator at the Civic Tech Innovation Network (CTIN).
This year’s forum aims to explore three key areas:
1. Technology: What’s Under the Hood?
Emerging technologies often seem like black boxes. Trust, equity, and governance are critical in this age, and the forum will delve into these areas. Discussions will revolve around AI transparency—understanding its code, data, and algorithms—and the potential for endogenous tech development in Africa. How can Africa move beyond being just consumers of technology to becoming creators empowered by knowledge?
2. Community: What’s in Our ‘Hood?
The focus here is on local communities. How can we leverage our collective creativity, energy, and resources to develop the capacities we need? Who are we waiting for? The power to innovate and grow is within our communities.
3. Self: What’s Under Our Hoodies?
This conversation moves beyond just technology and communities to personal reflection. What talents, passions, and capabilities are hiding under our hoodies? The shadows that may be associated with mischief could hold hidden geniuses, activists, and champions ready to drive the civic tech ecosystem forward.
The Civic Tech Innovation Forum (#UnderTheHood) is a call to the African civic tech ecosystem and its supporters to seize the opportunities before them. It will be held from 28 to 31 October 2024 at the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Johannesburg.
Key Focus Areas for Civic Tech Innovation Forum 2024:
- #UnderTheHood of Democracy and Governance: Are we making progress in leveraging tech for governance?
- #UnderTheHood of Development: What are the enablers and disablers in civic tech, and where are the opportunities?
- #UnderTheHood of Culture and Creative Industries: How does creativity in tech align with social activism?
The event promises to be an exciting, multi-layered exploration of the relationship between technology, community, and self.
Tickets are free, providing an opportunity for everyone interested to attend.
About the Organiser
The Civic Tech Innovation Forum (CTIF) is hosted by the Civic Tech Innovation Network (CTIN), a community of leaders, technologists, researchers, and public servants. The forum offers a chance for this community to engage face-to-face, learn about the latest innovations, share tools and techniques, and form collaborations.
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