NAIROBI, Kenya- In a rapidly digitizing world, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are emerging as key drivers in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking at MWC24 Shanghai, Zhao Xiaolei, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization’s (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Offices (ITPO), emphasized the transformative power of digital technologies in creating jobs, boosting economies, and fostering more harmonious and environmentally friendly societies.
Zhao underscored the immense potential of digital transformation to accelerate progress towards the UN’s 2030 Agenda.
“At UNIDO, we’re developing an industry competitiveness index that will encompass 169 factors, with over 130 of these directly or indirectly influenced by digital transformation,” she noted.
This initiative highlights the critical role technology plays in driving industrial innovation and sustainable development.
Moreover, Zhao pointed out that more than 60pc of intellectual property rights advancements occur within the industrial and manufacturing sectors.
This figure rises to over 80pc when it comes to green technologies, illustrating how technological upgrades are vital for spurring industrial revolutions, innovations, and talent development.
These advancements, in turn, are crucial for accelerating the achievement of the 17 UN SDGs.
Zhao also stressed the importance of creating symbiotic partnerships across industries and supply chains, bringing together key players, including policymakers.
Highlighting a significant collaboration, she mentioned UNIDO’s partnership with Huawei, aimed at enhancing technology adoption to achieve the SDGs within the stipulated timeframe.
“Huawei is at the center of the supply chain, and we’ve been working together to promote green industry and digital industry transformation,” Zhao said.
She highlighted the need for reliable, stable, open, accessible, faster, safe, and greener infrastructures, areas where Huawei has been leading the charge.
Last year, UNIDO, in partnership with Huawei, launched the Global Alliance on Artificial Intelligence for Industry and Manufacturing (AIM-Global) at the World AI Conference in Shanghai.
This groundbreaking initiative is designed to foster the responsible, sustainable, and inclusive application of artificial intelligence in the industrial sector.
AIM-Global serves as a collaborative platform that brings together governments, international organizations, private sector players, and industry leaders who recognize AI’s transformative potential in driving inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
As the world continues to grapple with challenges like climate change and economic inequality, digital transformation and strategic partnerships will be crucial in meeting these challenges head-on.
UNIDO’s efforts, particularly through collaborations like those with Huawei, demonstrate the power of technology in not just achieving but accelerating progress toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
