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If we fail to embrace technological advancements and digital innovations, it will not be possible to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. There is a great need for innovation in strategic collaboration. For effective digital transformation to occur, it will take new partnerships in which the public and private sectors in both donor and developing countries work together to identify challenges and develop solutions. A positive example of this can be seen in Swisscontact’s Innova project in Guatemala, where we launched a collaboration with private-sector stakeholders and an institution for technology education. This resulted in the development of technical certification standards that align with market demands.
How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) transform social and economic systems for the better? Join us to explore this and more at our upcoming on-site event on November 4, 2024, at 5:30 PM at Google Zurich, Switzerland.
The ILO (2024) defines digitalisation as “the application of digital technologies, and thus digitised information or data, in the economy and society”. It has been described as a crucial tool for the renewal, simplification and improvement of development policy. New technologies can act as catalysts for development, social change, and inclusion. This powerful combination of digitalisation and new technologies can bring the UN’s SDGs within reach and enhance faster, more inclusive growth. However, for their successful implementation it will require more than just the adoption of new technologies. The 2016 World Bank’s Digital Dividends report emphasised that the mere possession of technical solutions does not bring about development. Supportive frameworks are vital, as well as an education system that equips individuals for modern work and enables them to participate in the global digital economy.
In terms of opportunities, digitalization has the potential to profoundly transform societies by enhancing transparency. It improves access to information, above all for marginalised groups. Digitalisation creates new business models and market opportunities that benefit women and girls in particular by expanding their access to education and the labour market. Mobile technology offers marginalised communities access to financial services, empowering individuals to create jobs and invest in their future. What’s more, digital tools supply agronomic expertise to help farmers adapt to climate change.
However, digitalisation also entails challenges and risks. It can only succeed if essential prerequisites like infrastructure, reliable internet access, electricity, and stable investment conditions are in place. Without these, digitalisation could end up making inequality even worse.
To conclude, digitalisation is not an end in itself, but it can be a powerful catalyst to help achieve the SDGs and boost change processes in developing countries. By embracing a human-centred approach, we can ensure that technology fosters inclusivity. The pursuit of multi-stakeholder collaboration lets us harness diverse perspectives and resources. This drives innovation that aligns with Swisscontact’s vision for sustainable development.