Global Leaders Unite at SDG Digital to Forge a Sustainable Digital Future

Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), SDG Digital is a vital component of ongoing efforts to harness digital innovation for sustainable development.

Leading global voices gathered today at the United Nations Headquarters for the SDG Digital event, titled "A Digital Future for All," showcasing innovative digital solutions and announcing renewed commitments aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), SDG Digital is a vital component of ongoing efforts to harness digital innovation for sustainable development.

 

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the transformative power of digital technologies, stating, "We created SDG Digital to show the world the power of digital. The commitments and solutions presented here send a powerful message that we will do what’s necessary to rescue the SDGs and build a better digital future for all, both now and for generations to come."

 

The event featured an Advisory Group comprising members from governments, industry, and UN agencies, highlighting 17 groundbreaking digital solutions designed to create a sustainable, inclusive, and responsible future. A global survey conducted as part of the event underlined the critical role of digital technologies in fostering a sustainable future.

 

Renewed Commitments to Digital Public Infrastructure Brazil and Malawi announced significant commitments to establish universal digital public infrastructure (DPI) safeguards, which are essential for creating safe and inclusive digital environments. Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, noted that "Digital public infrastructure is transforming service delivery to individuals, and we must commit to adopting universal safeguards to ensure it benefits everyone." Digital public infrastructure encompasses key components such as digital identity platforms, payment gateways, and data exchange systems, enabling citizens, businesses, and governments to thrive in a digital landscape. Celebrating Innovation:

 

Digital Solutions Advancing the SDGs: SDG Digital illustrated the power of collaboration in accelerating the SDGs through digital means. The event also underscored the urgent need for enhanced capacity-building support for developing nations to maximize the benefits of digitalization. The SDG Digital GameChangers Awards recognized outstanding organizations leveraging digital technologies for sustainable development.

Among the 1,100 submissions from 126 countries, noteworthy initiatives included:

- People: The UNICEF Oky Period Tracker App, designed by girls for girls, has educated and supported 800,000 users in 12 countries since July 2024.

-Planet: The Korea Water Resources Corporation's AI Water Purification Plant utilizes advanced technologies to provide clean water to 560,000 residents in Hwaseong, Korea.

- Prosperity: The Tech4Dev Women Techsters program has empowered over 155,000 women across Africa, achieving an 80% job placement rate in marginalized communities.

-Peace: The SocialTech Lab's platform connects over 6,000 young entrepreneurs across conflict-affected regions, utilizing AI to foster collaboration and innovation.

-Pioneers (Youth): Torchit's Jyoti AI smart glasses assist visually impaired individuals, reaching 300,000 people across 40 countries with a goal of impacting 10 million by 2030.

 

New Investments Under Partner2Connect SDG Digital also featured commitments totaling USD 1.05 billion aimed at enhancing connectivity, infrastructure, and digital skills. Significant pledges from Brazil and Nigeria accounted for USD 1 billion, highlighting the global South's role in this initiative. Key commitments included:

- Brazil: Anatel pledged to ensure connectivity for all 138,000 public schools by the end of 2026.

- Nigeria: NIGCOMSAT committed to providing internet access to 774 local government secretariats, enhancing digital government services.

- Global Esports Federation: Pledged to incorporate digital skills development and inclusion into its Gaming and Esports Acceleration Programme.

- e& Group: Committed to strengthening resilience in disaster-affected areas and supporting women entrepreneurs in the digital economy.

- United States: The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) pledged to support training for African women digital leaders.

 

The Partner2Connect initiative, ITU's online pledging platform, has now surpassed USD 52 billion in commitments, progressing toward the USD 100 billion goal set for 2026. SDG Digital was a pivotal part of the digital track at the UN Summit of the Future Action Days, co-convened by the Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology, ITU, and UNDP, focusing on how emerging technologies can build a more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible future.