ITU Podcasts

In this special episode of the ITU Future Innovators Podcast, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin hosts ITU Young Professionals Programme (YPP) officers: N'Goran Franck Konan (Ivory Coast), Flora Lomoteley Okine (Ghana), Prateek Dubey (India), and Tadala Beatrice Sambakunsi (Malawi). As the countdown to the Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) in Qatar kicks-off, they share visions for an inclusive digital transformation – including usable tech, ethical AI, bridging digital divides via lived experiences, and empowering youth in ICT standards and policies. The ITU Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a two-year, hands-on programme, empowering brilliant young experts to bridge the digital divide and leverage technology for global benefit. Though solid professional experience and a global network, YPP cultivates the next generation of global ICT leaders as they shape the future of the technology sector. This episode’s guests are part of the inaugural cohort of YPPs working in ITU HQ in Geneva. In this special episode of the ITU Future Innovators Podcast, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin hosts ITU Young Professionals Programme (YPP) officers: N'Goran Franck Konan (Ivory Coast), Flora Lomoteley Okine (Ghana), Prateek Dubey (India), and Tadala Beatrice Sambakunsi (Malawi). As the countdown to the Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) in Qatar kicks-off, they share visions for an inclusive digital transformation – including usable tech, ethical AI, bridging digital divides via lived experiences, and empowering youth in ICT standards and policies. The ITU Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a two-year, hands-on programme, empowering brilliant young experts to bridge the digital divide and leverage technology for global benefit. Though solid professional experience and a global network, YPP cultivates the next generation of global ICT leaders as they shape the future of the technology sector. This episode’s guests are part of the inaugural cohort of YPPs working in ITU HQ in Geneva. ITU is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation together with 194 Member States and a membership of some 900 private sector entities and academic institutions. Established over 150 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.

In this special episode of Technologized, Philippa Biggs sits down with Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, UNESCO’s Assistant Director‑General for Communication and Information, to explore the State of Broadband 2025 and the future of digital governance. Dr. Jelassi shares insights on: -15 years of the Broadband Commission and its impact on global digital development - The leap from 2 billion to 6+ billion internet users and what it means for inclusion - The value of a public–private, multi‑stakeholder platform for shaping digital policy -Why the State of Broadband Report is unique, diverse, and globally influential - AI, data governance, —and UNESCO’s global framework for responsible data use - Addressing misinformation, harmful content, and risks in the digital space - UNESCO’s pioneering work on the Ethics of AI, adopted by 193 member states, now implemented by 80+ countries - How AI is forcing a transformation in education, journalism, and media worldwide - How to explain complex technologies like AI, neurotech, and quantum tech to general audiences [ADG_UNESCO...5_Podcast_ | Word] From global governance to real‑world examples, Dr. Jelassi reveals how digital transformation is reshaping society—and how ethical frameworks can ensure technology remains a force for good. 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world. 🔗 Learn more at itu.int and broadbandcommission.org. #TechnologizedPodcast #UNESCO #AIethics #DigitalGovernance #StateOfBroadband #BroadbandCommission #DigitalInclusion #ArtificialIntelligence #DataGovernance #EthicalAI #DigitalTransformation ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU.

In this special episode of Technologized, Philippa Biggs speaks with Lacina Koné, Director‑General and CEO of Smart Africa, about the State of Broadband in Africa 2025 report. Together, they explore the realities, progress, and challenges of digital transformation across Africa — from broadband expansion to AI‑driven innovation. Lacina Koné shares insights on: - Africa’s digital transformation and why connectivity is the backbone of inclusive growth - The Broadband Commission’s impact, from affordability to closing the gender digital divide - The importance of African‑led narratives, data, and policymaking in broadband development - How broadband is reshaping agriculture, healthcare, fintech, education, and public services - The role of AI as an equalizer, enabling inclusion across Africa’s 2,000+ languages - Why technology is a vital career path for African youth and women, and how Smart Africa supports it - Smart Africa’s mission to harmonize digital policies and build a single African digital market From affordability barriers to usage gaps, from indigenous language AI to the future of digital public infrastructure, this episode dives deep into how Africa is shaping — and being shaped by — broadband and next‑generation technologies. 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world. Find out more about the report here: https://www.broadbandcommission.org/publication/state-of-broadband-in-africa/ #TechnologizedPodcast #StateOfBroadband #BroadbandInAfrica #SmartAfrica #DigitalTransformationAfrica #AfricaConnectivity #AIinAfrica #DigitalInclusion #BroadbandCommission #LacinaKone #TechForDevelopment

Step into the world of innovation, curiosity, and youth‑driven digital transformation in this episode of ITU Future Innovators, a podcast hosted by youth, for youth. 🌍✨ Featuring three inspiring members of the ITU Secretary‑General’s Youth Advisory Board — Daniella Esi Darlington, Halima Mohamed Ismail, and Nadir Atayev — this conversation dives deep into their personal journeys into the ICT sector, from early inspirations to overcoming challenges and launching impactful careers in fields like AI, space technology, and entrepreneurship. ⭐ In this episode: - How curiosity and passion led these young leaders into the world of ICT - Building careers across AI research, startups, space engineering, and responsible tech governance - The importance of mentorship, networks, and staying connected - Practical advice for young people looking to explore ICT careers - Why resilience, continuous learning, and purpose-driven innovation matter Whether you’re exploring your first steps in tech or taking your next leap, this episode offers real stories, bold ideas, and actionable guidance to help you shape your digital future. 👉 Explore more about ITU and youth opportunities: https://www.itu.int 👉 Listen, learn, and be inspired. Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with young innovators making global impact! #FutureInnovators #CareersInICT #YouthInTech #DigitalSkills #TechForGood #AIForAll #SpaceTech #YoungInnovators #ITU #STEMCareers ITU is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation together with 194 Member States and a membership of some 900 private sector entities and academic institutions. Established over 150 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.

In this special episode of Technologized, ITU's Philippa Biggs speaks with Donna Bethea-Murphy, Senior Vice President of Global Regulatory and Technology Policy at Viasat, and long‑time contributor to the Broadband Commission. Together, they explore: - The State of Broadband Report — its evolution, achievements, and global impact - The rise of satellite broadband and why we may be living through a “second space race” - How the Broadband Commission brings together industry, governments, and civil society - The challenges of communicating complex space technologies to general audiences - The role of satellites in sustainability, disaster warning, connectivity for remote areas, and more - Why space engineering remains an exciting and meaningful career path -The importance of equity in space and ensuring the benefits of the space economy are shared globally Donna also shares stories from her career, insights on explaining complicated science simply, and advice for young people—especially women—entering STEM and space engineering. If you’re interested in space technology, digital inclusion, broadband policy, or the future of global connectivity, this episode is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world. #TechnologizedPodcast #SatelliteBroadband #BroadbandCommission #SpaceTechnology #SatelliteInternet #STEMCareers #DigitalInclusion #Viasat #SpaceEngineering #ConnectivityForAll #StateOfBroadband

Entrevista con Fernando Miguel Machuca Manevy, Miembro del Directorio, Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones (CONATEL), Paraguay en La Conferencia Mundial de Desarrollo de las Telecomunicaciones de 2025 (CMDT-25) será acogida por el Gobierno de Azerbaiyán en Bakú del 17 al 28 de noviembre de 2025 bajo el lema "Conectividad universal, significativa y asequible para un futuro digital inclusivo y sostenible". Para más información: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Entrevista con H.E. Iván Emilio de Jesús Ogando Lora, Embajador y Representante Permanente ante la Oficina de las Naciones Unidas y otras Organizaciones Internacionales en Ginebra República Dominicana en La Conferencia Mundial de Desarrollo de las Telecomunicaciones de 2025 (CMDT-25) será acogida por el Gobierno de Azerbaiyán en Bakú del 17 al 28 de noviembre de 2025 bajo el lema "Conectividad universal, significativa y asequible para un futuro digital inclusivo y sostenible". Para más información: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Interview with Stalin Pedro, Director, Bureau for Communications, Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industries, Palau at The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”. For further information: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Interview with Emmanuel C. Manasseh, Regional Director, ITU Regional Office for Africa at The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”. For further information: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Interview with Atsuko Okuda, Regional Director,ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific at The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”. For further information: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Interview with Jaroslaw K Ponder, Head of ITU Office for Europe at The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”. For further information: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC

Interview with Adel Mohamed Darwish, Regional Director, ITU Regional Office for the Arab States at The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”. For further information: https://www.itu.int/wtdc25 #ITUWTDC