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To participate online

10:00 - 10:55: From Policy to Practice: Rights-Centred AI Procurement in the Public Sector

Organizer: Ms. Caitlin Kraft-Buchman, Womenatthetable

The session addresses a critical but often overlooked dimension of public sector digital transformation: the gap between existing procurement practices and the unique challenges posed by AI systems. Public sector AI deployment carries significant risks, particularly for vulnerable communities who both rely heavily on government services and face the greatest potential for algorithmic harm. Simultaneously, third-party AI suppliers often develop these systems without adequate understanding of existing inequalities or challenges of the deployment context more broadly, limiting their ability to anticipate and mitigate potential harms. In this session, we will present preliminary research findings from reviewing and assessing a series of public procurement processes for AI systems alongside established processes for non-AI products, including beneficial practices and open challenges

Speakers

• Ms. Caitlin Kraft-Buchman, CEO and Founder, Women at the Table
• Emma Kallina, Researcher, Women At The Table / NGO, University of Cambridge, RC Trust / Academia

11:00 - 11:55: AI Skills and Capacity Building to Strengthen All Stakeholders

Organizer: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the heart of this transformation, offering powerful tools to improve public services, policymaking, and governance. However, unlocking its potential requires targeted efforts to close the AI skills gap and ensure inclusive access to digital competencies.

Contributing to WSIS Action Line C4: Capacity Building, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is addressing this challenge through two flagship initiatives. The AI Skills Coalition brings together global stakeholders to define the competencies needed for AI governance and promote inclusive training opportunities. Meanwhile, the ITU Academy delivers practical, hands-on learning for public officials, helping them navigate emerging technologies and shape effective digital strategies.

Speakers

• Opening Remarks : Mr. Guilherme Canela, Director, Division of Digital Inclusion and Policies and Digital Transformation, UNESCO
• Ms. Gitanjali Sah - Strategy and Policy Coordinator, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
• H.E. Ms. Suela Janina, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Albania to the United Nations, Co-facilitator WSIS+20 Review
• H.E. Amb. Mr. Thomas Schneider, Director of International Affairs, OFCOM, Switzerland
• Ms. Cynthia Lesufi - Minister Counsellor for South Africa, Chair CWG WSIS&SDG, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
• Mr. Angel Draev - Senior Project Manager, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
• Ms. Silvia Vacchi - Training Development Consultant, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

12:00 - 13:00 - AI Policy in Practice: AI & Data Governance from the Ground Up 

Organizer: GIZ

This session addresses critical capacity-building needs for public sector officials navigating AI, digital technologies, and data governance. Through real-world examples and insights from the AI Policy Playbook, developed by the Africa-Asia AI Policymaker Network, the session offers practical guidance for shaping responsible and context-sensitive AI policies. It highlights the importance of peer learning, inclusive policymaking, and international cooperation to democratize AI governance. The session will address practical challenges in applying data to policymaking and the emerging role of AI. It will build on concrete lessons drawn from a policy brief series developed by PARIS21.

Objectives:

The panel will explore AI and data governance from a holistic perspective, with a particular focus on the Global South. Panelists will discuss the enabling conditions for using AI and data to support data-informed decision-making and inclusive digital development. They will also share practical insights, lived experiences, and actionable strategies for designing and implementing AI policies that are responsive to local needs and realities.

Speakers:

Opening remarks

• Mr. Yannik Saßmann, BMZ: "Perspectives from the BMZ on AI-driven policymaking in public administration" 

Launch & Presentation of the Playbook 

• Ms. Deshni Govender, GIZ - AI Policy Playbook – Navigating AI Policy through and African & Asian lens

Panel Discussion

Moderator: Ms. Deshni Govender, GIZ 

• Ms. Jeanne Jadeau, Paris21: Perspective on AI for policy-making
• Mr. Maxwell Ababio, Data Protection Commission, Ghana

Questions & Answers