ITU calls for the involvement of women in shaping and monitoring AI tools and systems

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, has called for the involvement of women from all regions of the world in shaping and monitoring AI tools and systems.

Speaking at the AI for Good Summit, she said currently, women represent only 22% of the AI workforce, mirroring their underrepresentation in the technology field hence the need for diverse women's perspectives to improve the design and application of AI technologies.

Experts agree that women's involvement is crucial for creating inclusive AI systems that benefit all marginalized groups. Initiatives such as supporting women-led start-ups, empowering girls with learning opportunities, and providing training and pro bono support to women entrepreneurs are essential for driving gender equality in technology.

The ITU and EY have launched a project to train 1,000 girls across 12 countries in AI and entrepreneurship, enabling them to develop innovative solutions. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of ITU's Telecommunication Development Bureau, noted during the Summit that the "AI skills accelerator for girls" project will provide girls and women with digital, ethical, and managerial skills to become content creators and boost creativity and innovation.

Placing women at the forefront of AI development is essential for ensuring equity, accountability, and inclusivity. Helene Molinier, Senior Advisor on Digital Cooperation at UN Women, also emphasized that AI systems are currently reinforcing gender bias, and developers need to tackle these biases to create inclusive tools.

The panel agreed that diversity is critical in AI development, and marginalized groups must be involved in co-creation from the start. Human rights impact assessment tools can help correct bias, and international organizations can ensure all voices are heard by mobilizing technical assistance, digital skills training, and funding to implement gender-inclusive policies throughout the AI value chain.

The Global Lead on AI and Data Innovation at the World Bank, Sharmista Appaya noted that AI systems can help drive financial inclusion for women, who make up 60% of the global unbanked population.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye