Session
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 90
Format description: The round table layout fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity and collaboration, where participants can engage in open dialogue and exchange ideas freely. With everyone seated around the table on equal footing, regardless of their affiliations or backgrounds, the format encourages active participation and ensures that all voices are heard. Moreover, the duration of the session has been thoughtfully planned to maintain focus and engagement throughout. By providing a structured timeframe, we can delve deep into discussions while also ensuring that the conversation remains dynamic and energized. In terms of room layout, the round table configuration allows for seamless integration of both onsite and online participants, ensuring that everyone can contribute to the conversation regardless of their physical location. Overall, the round table session format, combined with the appropriate room layout and duration, offers the ideal setting for our activity, facilitating meaningful discussion and collaboration among a diverse range of stakeholders.
The African Union Commission plans to host the 2024 AU Open Forum in a hybrid format, with a thematic focus on 'Enhancing the Digital Contribution to Peace, Development, and Sustainability'. This forum aims to delve into digital inclusion, particularly concerning Capacity Building, Digital Transformation, Data Policy, Cybersecurity, and Digital Cooperation. Additionally, discussions will revolve around Internet Governance activities at the national, regional, and continental levels. A significant highlight of the event will be the presentation of the Africa Digital Compact, recently ratified by the African Union STC, during a dedicated session. Furthermore, the host country chair of the Africa IGF 2024 will provide insights into the Africa School of IG, Africa Youth IGF, African IGF, and the Africa IGF Parliamentary session, inviting feedback from participants. The African Union Open Forum expects a diverse representation of stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, academics, technical experts, civil society organizations, ministers, parliamentarians, media professionals, and regional/international organizations. To ensure inclusivity, the forum will adopt a fully hybrid approach, accommodating both in-person and online attendees. The event will be extensively promoted at national and regional levels, including during the Africa IGF. To facilitate smooth discussions, there will be two moderators—one online and one onsite—who will work in tandem to ensure that all participants, whether online or onsite, have their voices heard. All contributions from participants will be carefully considered in shaping the dialogue.
Facilitating Interaction between Onsite and Online Speakers and Attendees: We will ensure that both onsite and online participants have equal opportunities to contribute to discussions by implementing a hybrid-friendly session format. Speakers and moderators will be briefed on how to engage with both onsite and remote attendees effectively, including techniques for acknowledging and integrating input from virtual participants. Technology will be utilized to create seamless communication channels between the two groups, such as dedicated video conferencing platforms and interactive chat features. Designing the Session for the Best Possible Experience for Online and Onsite Participants: The session format will be carefully crafted to accommodate both onsite and online participation, with consideration given to factors such as timing, presentation materials, and audience engagement methods. Clear instructions and guidelines will be provided to speakers and moderators to ensure that they are prepared to adapt their presentations and interactions to suit a hybrid audience. Efforts will be made to foster a sense of inclusivity and belonging for remote attendees, such as incorporating virtual networking opportunities and providing access to supplementary materials in advance. Complementary Online Tools/Platforms for Increasing Participation and Interaction: We plan to utilize interactive polling tools to gather feedback from both onsite and online participants in real-time, allowing for dynamic engagement and audience participation. By implementing these strategies and leveraging appropriate online tools and platforms, we aim to create a hybrid session experience that is inclusive, interactive, and engaging for all participants, regardless of their location or mode of participation.
🔒Africa Union Commission
African Union Commission Waleed Ali Hamdi , African Union Commission Adil Sulieman - African Union Commission Mactar Seck - UNECA Mariam Jobe, Africa IGF
Dr. Kamugisha Kazaura, African Union Commission Waleed Ali Hamdi , African Union Commission Adil Sulieman - African Union Commission Lilian Nalwoga - Chair of AfIGF- MAG Host Continental Africa IGF Mactar Seck - UNECA
Adil Sulieman - African Union Commission
Mariam Jobe
Mariam Jobe
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
17. Partnerships for the Goals
Targets: SDG 4: Quality Education: The session's focus on Capacity Building in digital skills directly aligns with SDG 4's target of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. By equipping individuals with digital skills, the session contributes to enhancing their educational opportunities and preparing them for participation in the digital economy. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Discussions on Digital Transformation within the session support the development of resilient infrastructure and the promotion of sustainable industrialization, key targets of SDG 9. By fostering innovation and digitalization across sectors, the session contributes to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Deliberations on Cybersecurity and Digital Cooperation within the session are essential for building resilient and inclusive societies, directly contributing to the targets of SDG 16. Strengthening cybersecurity measures and promoting digital cooperation foster trust in digital transactions, protect individuals' rights online, and contribute to peace and stability. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: The session's inclusive approach, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, aligns with the collaborative spirit of SDG 17. By emphasizing partnerships and collaboration, the session facilitates the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources necessary for achieving common goals related to digital inclusion and sustainable development. In summary, the proposed IGF session aligns with the selected SDG targets by addressing key areas such as education, innovation, peace, and partnerships, and by leveraging digital advancements to accelerate progress towards sustainable development goals.