AI impact Global South: Chinasa T. Okolo: Pioneering AI Researcher Investigates Impact on the Global South
In a radical interview with TechCrunch, Chinasa T. Okolo sheds light on her essential work in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). She is a fellow at the Brookings Institution in the Center of Technology Innovation’s Governance Studies program. As a researcher and policy advisor, Okolo has been at the front of AI development, focusing particularly on its influence in the Global South.
Okolo’s journey into AI began during her undergraduate years at Pomona College, where she worked together with a human-computer communication professor. This experience exposed her to the challenges of bias within AI systems. During her Ph.D. studies at Cornell University, she researched deeper, exploring how these issues excessively affect populations in the Global South, who are often excluded from AI development.
One of Okolo’s most important achievements is her work with the African Union (AU) in developing the AU-AI Continental Strategy for Africa. This complete strategy aims to prepare AU member states for the responsible adoption, development, and governance of AI. After over 1.5 years of drafting, the strategy was released in late February 2024 and is currently in an open feedback period, with formal adoption expected in early 2025.
As a first-generation Nigerian American, Okolo’s commitment to shaping inclusive, global AI governance is unwavering. She stresses the importance of community and cites influential Black women scholars like Timnit Gebru, Safiya Noble, and Joy Buolamwini as sources of inspiration in steering the male-dominated tech and AI industries.
In summary, Chinasa T. Okolo’s revolutionary work in AI research and policy has important consequences for the Global South. Her commitment to inclusivity and responsible AI governance sets a powerful example for the industry. As we look ahead, Okolo’s influence will certainly shape the future of AI on a global scale.
Read More: Truecaller Microsoft AI Voice Assistant: AI Assistant to Answer Calls with User’s Voice
Read More: World Conference on Data Science & Statistics (Data Science Week 2024)
