Tag Archives: Bridging

Bridging the Gender Gap in AI Development: Solutions for a More Inclusive Future

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Women in AI Conference

Left to right: Rachel Coldicutt, David Leslie, Rumman Chowdhury, Noura Al Moubayed, Wendy Hall.

Royal Society/Debbie Rowe

On the second day of the Women and the Future of Science conference at the Royal Society in London, I encountered significant challenges with AI transcription software. It consistently mistyped names, which strained my ability to focus on the impactful discussions surrounding artificial intelligence, particularly concerning the erasure of women in contemporary AI technologies.

This issue extends beyond the well-documented bias in AI algorithms stemming from training datasets that often lack gender diversity.

Sessions led by renowned computer scientists, including Wendy Hall, aim to tackle a pressing concern: the predominance of male designers in crafting transformative AI technologies that greatly impact society.

Historically, technology has been a male-dominated domain, with current statistics showing that only 25 percent of computer science students in the UK are women. In recent years, Silicon Valley’s environment has become increasingly hostile towards women, particularly as generative AI continues to evolve.

“There has been a significant setback over the last two years,” states David Leslie, Director of Ethics and Responsible Innovation Research at the Alan Turing Institute. “Debates regarding the generational damage inflicted on women in science by the Trump administration are not merely speculative; we’re regressing.”

Last year, President Donald Trump issued an executive order that targeted the concept of “woke AI,” urging the US National Institute of Standards and Technology to re-evaluate its AI risk management framework, stripping away references to misinformation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and climate change.

Among the panelists was Rumman Chowdhury, a data scientist and former special envoy for AI science, who previously oversaw ethics and accountability at Twitter under Elon Musk before being dismissed along with her team. She highlights that the notion of woke AI emerged from sexist attitudes within Silicon Valley prior to the President’s directives.

When asked to envision AI devoid of female contributions, panelists noted that we are already witnessing this reality. “In the sphere of frontier AI, we are indeed in an AI landscape without women,” declares Chaudhry, while Rachel Coldicutt emphasizes that lacking women in AI is not a distant fantasy, but a current reality.

The implications are profound. From crash test dummies to medical research, a longstanding trend exists where technology is built with male bodies and needs in mind, a phenomenon termed the gender data gap. The ramifications of this gap can range from inconvenient to life-threatening.

AI’s influence will permeate various aspects of life, including employment, education, and healthcare. However, as highlighted by Chaudhry, women currently receive only 2% of venture capital funding, and less than 1 percent of healthcare research funding addresses women’s health. “We must utilize technology for everyone, not just the elite,” Coldicutt stressed.

What actions should be taken? Coldicutt argues that existing AI models are crippled by centuries of bias, making rectification nearly impossible. “We need alternative models,” she insists, emphasizing the importance of fostering systems that prioritize care for both people and the planet.

Chaudhry, a co-founder of the nonprofit Humane Intelligence, which aids companies in enhancing accountability and fairness in AI systems, notes that much of current AI development is driven by a misplaced urgency focused on existential threats to jobs and humanity. “If your house were on fire, you wouldn’t contemplate your mother’s jewelry in that moment,” she explains. This sense of urgency leads to the neglect of essential factors, including diversity.

For the upcoming generation, Leslie advocates that to empower youth in developing AI for social benefit, we must reevaluate the economic and political frameworks surrounding AI development. “We need to begin by redefining incentives.”

Ultimately, we may need to redefine the very notion of intelligence in the context of AI to embrace a wider, more diverse array of perspectives. Much of the foundational thought on AI, including its definitions, arose from a landmark conference held at Dartmouth College in the 1950s—an event composed entirely of men, as Hall points out.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Bridging the Shocking Knowledge Gap in Women’s Health: Key Insights and Solutions

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mDoc health coaches provide health check-ups at Balogun market, Lagos, Nigeria - September 14, 2023

Investing in women’s health is investing in life.

Gates Archive

As a former pediatrician in Karachi, Pakistan, I cared for countless premature infants born due to pre-eclampsia. These tiny lives often rested in the palm of my hand, struggling for breath. Unfortunately, not all of them survived.

The complexities of pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia remain poorly understood. We lack clarity on the root causes and preventive measures for premature births, contributing to the global maternal and infant mortality crisis. Every day, over 700 women and 6,500 newborns lose their lives due to pregnancy or childbirth complications. The highest rates are in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, exacerbated by weak healthcare systems, inequitable access to care, extreme poverty, and inadequate infrastructure.

Astonishing knowledge gaps exist across women’s health issues, including menopause. The norm of women suffering for a decade seems acceptable, yet is scarcely recognized as a significant issue. This oversight stems not from scientific challenges but from a pervasive apathy. Women’s experiences have been largely overlooked, impacting what is researched and what remains unaddressed.

Currently, less than 1 percent of healthcare research focuses on women’s health outcomes outside of cancer. This underinvestment and the lack of female participation in clinical trials leave fundamental questions in women’s health unanswered. For instance, while we know the symptoms of heart disease—the leading cause of death for women globally—differ by individual, the reasons remain a mystery. Moreover, the pathways for drugs into the brain are known, yet how they affect the female reproductive system is largely unexplored, unlike the extensive knowledge we possess about men’s health, such as the effects of Viagra.

A Ray of Hope

Progress is being made, and I’ve observed a shift towards serious discussions on investing in women’s health at global health and medical innovation conferences. Decision-makers and investors are beginning to acknowledge the severity of the issue and the potential benefits of addressing it following decades of neglect.

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When a problem is treated as unnoticeable rather than unacceptable, finding a solution is never a priority.
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Recognizing the challenges is only the first step; we must actively allocate resources and focus on the multifaceted issues surrounding women’s health.

I am particularly excited about the transformative potential of innovative research and tools. For example, the vaginal microbiome—a balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria—has only recently gained attention. Understanding its role in pregnancy outcomes, like preterm birth, and women’s vulnerability to infections like HIV is crucial.

My team at the Gates Foundation is funding research to uncover how the vaginal microbiome affects pregnancy outcomes and women’s susceptibility to STIs. Although we’re in early stages, promising innovations are emerging that could benefit millions of women.

For instance, interventions promoting healthy bacteria dominance in the vagina might help prevent STIs. Conditions like bacterial vaginosis, while mild, can lead to severe pregnancy complications, including premature birth and an increased risk of postnatal issues such as chronic pain and infertility.

Last year, the Gates Foundation committed to $2.5 billion for women’s health innovation. However, this amount is insufficient. We need to bolster collaboration with public and private sector entities globally. The UK has a unique opportunity to build on its health innovation reputation, enhancing lives both domestically and internationally while advancing its vital economic sectors.

Investing in women’s health equates to investing in their lives and well-being. A healthy woman fosters creativity, is more engaged with her family, and is an active participant in her community. This is a fundamental truth. On this International Women’s Day, let’s turn this truth into action by urging leaders to prioritize and resource women’s health initiatives now.

Anita Zaidi is Chair of Gender Equality at the Gates Foundation

Source: www.newscientist.com

Gamers as Hackers: Discovering the Next Generation of Tech Talent in Unexpected Places | Bridging Fun and Purpose

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For numerous young individuals in schools and universities, a solid understanding of digital skills is essential for future learning and employment prospects. Nonetheless, teachers face a considerable challenge in ensuring these skills are utilized effectively.

As reported by The Hacking Games, an organization focused on helping youth with hacking skills secure jobs in the cybersecurity sector, criminal groups are increasingly targeting talented teenagers within popular online gaming spaces.

This is a route that educators hope to steer their students away from, which is why Co-op, a sponsor of the Co-op Academies Trust, has collaborated with The Hacking Games. The Co-op Academies Trust serves over 20,000 students across 38 primary, secondary, and special needs schools, as well as one college in Northern England. The partnership aims to direct students with coding skills toward careers in ‘ethical hacking.’

Joe Sykes, Careers Director at the Co-op Academies Trust, comments: “In recent years, there has been a growing interest among students in technology, particularly gaming, and they are investigating how this passion might lead to future careers.

“Through our engagement with The Hacking Games, we discovered the transferable skills that exist between gaming and ethical hacking, particularly within cybersecurity. Our students found this link to be both exciting and motivating.”

“Students will find it engaging to learn about the transferable skills between gaming and ethical hacking in the technology sector, especially in cybersecurity.”

Adam Woodley, Head of Curriculum at Connell Cope College, agrees, noting that many young individuals view careers in the digital sector as a “very popular option.”

“Students have acquired highly sought-after skills through hobbies such as gaming, and they naturally desire to apply these skills in exciting career paths,” he states.

“Thus, it is crucial that they have the chance to explore the stimulating realm of ethical hacking and cybersecurity and utilize those skills to benefit society.”

Rob Elsey, Chief Digital Information Officer at Co-op, concurs. “There are numerous unfilled positions in cybersecurity,” he points out. “The more we can transform the bright, skilled young individuals we have in the UK into defenders instead of attackers, and educate them about the available opportunities, the better. This will help us confront ongoing threats as a nation.”

Driving apprenticeships and internships

Fergus Hay, co-founder of The Hacking Games, emphasizes, “It takes a community to motivate, appreciate, and empower this generation to choose the right path.” The Hacking Games’ framework assesses young people’s digital aptitudes and skills against specific criteria to identify suitable careers for them in the tech industry.

The Hacking Games is actively working on creating formal pathways (apprenticeships and internships) to digital jobs within the government or private sectors in the future. Many experts believe this route is also accessible for neurodiverse youth. However, for both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, gaming serves as a common training ground for hacking, remarks John Madelin, a cybersecurity veteran and Chief Product Officer at The Hacking Games.

“Many hackers I’ve encountered are gamers,” he states, adding that most young gamers do not harbor criminal intentions, “but the distinction is significant.” For many young gamers, hacking revolves around discovering new and hidden aspects of gameplay, while for some, it involves creating and selling cheat codes to other players.


Hacking Games’ assessment framework aligns a student’s aptitudes with appropriate technical jobs. Composite: Getty Images/Guardian Design

These advanced technological skills are precisely what criminal organizations seek to exploit, particularly among students less focused on academic achievement. However, Madeline asserts she can guide young hackers toward more positive paths. “It’s essential to continuously challenge and engage them,” he states. “Instead of allowing them to remain inactive, we should utilize their talents.”

The Co-op Academies Trust has already identified careers in the digital sector as crucial components of its post-primary career program. Mr. Sykes believes it is vital for all children to discern their strengths as early as possible. “Our duty as educators is to optimize outcomes in these areas.

“Individuals with strong digital skills often possess a natural inclination to think logically and solve problems creatively,” she adds.

“Blessed with a talent for technology and gaming.”

The collaboration between Co-op and The Hacking Games comes after Co-op became the target of a cyberattack earlier this year. Focused on creating social value, Co-op (an organization owned by its members rather than shareholders) sought to address the underlying causes of hacking.

“We recognize that children possess talents in technology and gaming, and that these skills can lead to hacking,” Sykes states. “Initiatives like this allow us to discuss the ramifications and legalities surrounding hacking and help students recognize the opportunities these skills can present through their ethical application.”

Potential roles in cybersecurity for major firms and organizations may involve identifying weaknesses that malicious hackers could exploit. There are also opportunities within government departments working against hacking attempts directed at critical national infrastructure.

This is one of the primary reasons The Hacking Games recently launched its HAPTAI platform. The platform aids in developing hacking aptitude profiles for young individuals by analyzing their performances in popular games and matching them with corresponding psychometric profiles. Subsequently, candidates are paired with roles and teams suited to their strengths.


Our collaboration with The Hacking Games aims to encourage children to actively harness their abilities. Composite: Getty Images/Guardian Design

Protection today, career path tomorrow

“Children can be particularly susceptible to online dangers, thus we ensure they are educated about these risks, including the legal boundaries surrounding online safety and hacking,” Sykes explains. “I believe all schools need to stay updated with current issues. This presents a real opportunity for professionals to enhance their understanding of the risks and communicate them effectively to parents.”

In the future, she envisions a national computer science curriculum that incorporates lessons on ethical hacking and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic), helping all students recognize the potential harm at all levels of the economy.

Until that vision is realized, the partnership between Co-op and The Hacking Games will persist. The Co-op Academy Walkden will be piloted in the upcoming months to raise awareness of the issue and identify talented young individuals who can contribute to the solution before scaling it into a nationwide program.

“There are vast career opportunities in the digital arena,” states Sykes. “This ultimately aids students in understanding all the positive pathways available to them and how they can significantly contribute to creating a safer world.”

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Keep children and young people safe online with Barnardo’s online safety guidance

Source: www.theguardian.com

“Dispelling 5 Myths About Digital Poverty: Internet Access for All” | Bridging the Digital Divide

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Many of us rely on the Internet for various aspects of our daily lives. Whether it’s for work, entertainment, or staying connected, millions of people expect to have access to the Internet at all times. However, for those living in poverty, digital access is often a luxury that they cannot afford. This lack of access leads to isolation and exclusion from many essential parts of life. It is crucial to take thoughtful and conscientious action to help those struggling with digital poverty stay connected.

If you want to learn more, here are five common myths about digital poverty and the reality behind them:

Myth 1 – Everyone has access to the Internet now

According to the Digital Poverty Alliance, one in seven people in the UK (around 9.5 million people) are experiencing some form of digital poverty. Ofcom’s 2023 forecast, Online Nation, found that 7% of UK households lack internet access at home. Another million people are at risk due to the cost of living crisis. Digital poverty affects people from all walks of life, especially those who are already disadvantaged.

Vodafone is partnering with the Trussell Trust to provide free data and calls to people classified as digitally excluded who visit or call food banks. A helpline has been set up to assist people facing financial hardships.

Myth #2 – Internet access is a luxury, not a necessity

It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but the lack of internet access can severely impact a person’s life. Jobs, shopping, and accessing support services are all done online nowadays. Digital exclusion makes it harder for individuals to improve their situations and exacerbates existing difficulties.

Eniola Akinlabi, campaigns and communications manager at Tottenham Foodbank, notes the transformative impact of providing digital access to those in need.

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Source: www.theguardian.com