The 2023 PSA discussions focused on the crucial topics of privacy, examining them through the lens of different sectors. Our panels delved into the complex relationship between privacy and key sectors that significantly influence our societies today: Media, Law, Health, Banking, IT and Education.
Each panel featured experts from these sector that came together to explore the distinct challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends related to privacy. By adopting a sectoral lens, our aim was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of privacy concerns and its impact across various domains of our lives.
Navigating the Role of Global Fund, WHO, WB, and Others in Financing Technological Advancements in the Health Sector amidst Digital Transformation
- Date: Tuesday 7th November, 2023
- Time: 10:52 am - 12:30pm (GMT +4)
In today’s digital era, technological advancements in the health sector have the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and enhance global health systems. The session provided valuable insights into the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for navigating the intersection of funding, technology, and privacy in the health sector.
The session catered to policymakers, representatives from funding organizations, healthcare professionals, technology developers, privacy advocates, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the intersection of privacy, funding, and technological advancements in the health sector.
The rise of EdTech: exploring the rise of technologies within the education sector – ensuring a human-rights based approach
- Date: Tuesday 7th November, 2023
- Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm(GMT +4)
This session delved into the rapid rise of Educational Technology (EdTech) and the challenge it poses. We explored the different types of technologies that are being deployed within educational settings from facial recognition in schools to the rise of educational platforms.
We discussed the implementation of EdTech around the world to better understand the trends and challenges, examining the privacy concerns, and the role of tech companies focusing on how we can ensure edtech is implemented in line with human rights standards, with appropriate safeguards against abuse, enhancing children’s education rather than being guided by corporate interests and securitisation narratives.
Preserving Privacy in Investigative Journalism: Exploring the Delicate Balance between Public Interest and Privacy Rights
- Date: Wednesday 8th November, 2023
- Time: 3:12pm-4:45pm (GMT +4)
In the realm of journalism, the pursuit of truth and the public’s right to know often collide with an individual’s right to privacy. Investigative journalism, in particular, plays a crucial role in uncovering hidden truths, exposing corruption, and holding the powerful accountable. However, it also raises ethical dilemmas regarding the invasion of privacy. This session delved into the complexities surrounding privacy in investigative journalism, exploring the ethical, legal, and societal dimensions of this issue.
Discussion Objectives
•To understand the fundamental principles of investigative journalism and its role in promoting transparency and accountability.
• To explore the ethical challenges posed by investigative journalism when it comes to protecting individuals’ privacy rights.
Ethical AI - Safeguarding Privacy in Africa's IT Landscape: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges for Exports IT Players
- Date: Wednesday 8th November, 2023
- Time: 11:55am-01:05pm (GMT +4)
As Africa’s IT landscape continues to expand, embracing the potential of AI is crucial for driving innovation, economic growth, and social development. However, with this technological progress, ethical considerations, particularly regarding privacy, become paramount. This session shed light on the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing Ethical AI in Africa, with a specific focus on safeguarding privacy.
By engaging IT players, policymakers, and stakeholders, this discussion sought to foster a robust ethical framework to guide AI adoption in Africa.
Among other outcomes, the discussion enhanced awareness among participants regarding the ethical dimensions of AI implementation in Africa and increased understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with safeguarding privacy in the IT landscape.
Ensuring Privacy and Data Protection in Mobile Banking Digital Payment Platforms: Addressing Challenges and Solutions in Africa
- Date: Wednesday 8th November, 2023
- Time: 10:36am - 11:50am (GMT +4) (GMT +4)
Mobile banking and digital payment platforms have become increasingly popular in Africa, providing convenient and accessible financial services to millions of people. However, with the rise of these platforms comes the need to ensure privacy and data protection for users. This session explored the challenges and solutions for ensuring privacy and data protection in mobile banking and digital payment platforms in Africa.
The audience included policymakers and government officials involved in formulating regulations related to mobile banking and digital payments, representatives from financial institutions, data protection officers and privacy professionals, and legal experts specialising in privacy and data protection among others.
Surveillance and National Security in Africa
- Date: 7th November, 2023
- Time: 2:05PM - 3:05PM (GMT +4)
In recent years, Africa has witnessed a significant increase in surveillance technologies and practices aimed at enhancing national security. For instance, a report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies indicates that as of December 2020, over a dozen African countries had deployed surveillance devices for varying purposes. While the need to safeguard citizens and protect them against potential threats is crucial, the balance between surveillance and individual rights must be carefully examined. This panel session aimed at exploring the challenges, ethical considerations, and potential solutions related to surveillance and national security in Africa. By bringing together experts from various fields, we seek to foster a comprehensive dialogue on striking the right balance between security and privacy in the African context.
The insights gained from this session will contribute to the ongoing dialogue on surveillance practices, inform policymakers, and encourage responsible and transparent approaches to national security in Africa.