Information and communication technology (ICT) has made fast, wide and deep technological impacts on international development worldwide, driven by rapid growth of mobile, Internet and broadband access in developing countries. The extent of developmental impact has already been recognized- supporting the work of hundreds of millions of farmers and micro-entrepreneurs with access to markets, produce and techniques; creating millions of ICT-based jobs; assisting healthcare workers and teachers; helping climate change adaptations, just to name a few.

The level of integration into the digital economy matters more and more as it can significantly affect countries’ economic growth and human development. Due to connectivity and access gap, however, new forms of inequality are emerging; countries with better connectivity are enjoying better access to digital services and opportunities and the rest are left behind.

Senior government officials from Asia and the Pacific, along with civil society representatives and the private sector have committed to promote more inclusive technology and innovation policies to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), at a high-level meeting in Bangkok this week.

The potential of digital technologies and services has given way to the promise of a digital world, spurring economic growth, improving health outcomes, and lifting millions out of poverty. Tapping into this potential and promise is central to USAID’s mission of helping countries on their journey to self-reliance by promoting inclusive growth and resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity. In an effort to recognize USAID Missions, the Lab is hosting the second annual Digital Development Awards (“the Digis”).

The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina J. Mohammad, addressed to the youth participating in United Nations International School-United Nations welcoming ceremony on the 28th of February 2018 at the General Assembly Hall in UN Headquarters in New York. The topic under discussion this year was “Under Control: Technology, Innovation and the Future of Work”. She highlighted the importance of the positive impact of science and technology in workplaces and societies.