ITU Tech Monthly

In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, we explore the transformative Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative with Ashish Narayan, Program Coordinator at ITU’s Asia and Pacific Regional Office.

🌍 From remote islands in Vanuatu to rural villages in Pakistan, discover how communities are leapfrogging into the digital future through:

• Broadband connectivity and affordable digital services
• Community-driven innovation and digital skills training 
• Real-world success stories in e-education, e-health, and mobile payments
• Multi-stakeholder collaboration for scalable, sustainable impact

💡 Learn how technology is being used to empower women, youth, and vulnerable populations—and why smart solutions must be locally driven and globally supported.

Find out more about the Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative: https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/ICT-Applications/Pages/Initiatives/ASP/Smart-Islands/Smart-Islands-Initiative.aspx

👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of digital technologies.

🔗 Learn more about ITU: www.itu.int 🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

 #digitalinclusion #SmartVillages #SmartIslands #digitaltransformation

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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 episode of ITU Tech Monthly, we explore the transformative Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative with Ashish Narayan, Program Coordinator at ITU’s Asia and Pacific Regional Office.

🌍 From remote islands in Vanuatu to rural villages in Pakistan, discover how communities are leapfrogging into the digital future through:

• Broadband connectivity and affordable digital services
• Community-driven innovation and digital skills training 
• Real-world success stories in e-education, e-health, and mobile payments
• Multi-stakeholder collaboration for scalable, sustainable impact

💡 Learn how technology is being used to empower women, youth, and vulnerable populations—and why smart solutions must be locally driven and globally supported.

Find out more about the Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative: https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/ICT-Applications/Pages/Initiatives/ASP/Smart-Islands/Smart-Islands-Initiative.aspx

👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of digital technologies.

🔗 Learn more about ITU: www.itu.int 🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

 #digitalinclusion #SmartVillages #SmartIslands #digitaltransformation

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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 episode we are joined by Ahmed Elraghy from the Telecommunication Development Bureau at ITU, to explore the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR 25), taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 🎯 Key topics include: - The evolving role of regulators in the digital age - How GSR fosters global collaboration and regulatory harmonization - The impact of transformative technologies like AI and big data - Agile and data-driven regulation for sustainable digital transformation - The 2025 theme: Regulation for sustainable digital development GSR 25 is a blueprint for inclusive, forward-thinking regulation in a rapidly changing tech landscape. 🔗 Learn more: www.itu.int/GSR25 📌 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is driving progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. ITU is the leading 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 160 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.

Dr. Cosmas Zavazava, Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, shares his thoughts on the vision and global momentum behind the upcoming World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) 2025, which will be hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan in Baku from 17 to 28 November 2025. 🎯 Key topics include: - The mission to connect the remaining 2.6 billion people offline - What “meaningful connectivity” really means - Cybersecurity and child online protection - Digital transformation and regulatory innovation - Bridging the digital divide and empowering marginalized communities - The role of international cooperation and resource mobilization 🌍 WTDC 2025 is a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable digital development. Tune in to learn how global collaboration is shaping a connected future for all. 🔗 Learn more: www.itu.int/WTDC25 📌 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is driving progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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.

🌍 ITU Tech Monthly – Episode 003: All you ever wanted to know about space safety In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, host Max Jacobson-Gonzalez explores the rapidly evolving world of space safety, sustainability, and security with special guest Thomas Gonzalez Roberts, Academic in Residence at the International Telecommunication Union and incoming professor at Georgia Tech. 🚀 What’s inside: Why the night sky is filling up with satellites The growing risks of orbital debris and radiofrequency interference How AI is revolutionizing space safety The role of major players in shaping the orbital landscape The environmental impact of satellite deorbiting What the future holds for space governance and global cooperation 🔭 Whether you're a space enthusiast, tech professional, or just curious about the future of our skies, this episode offers a fascinating look at the challenges and innovations shaping the final frontier. 📡 Learn more about ITU’s work in space at www.itu.int And check out ITU's Space Connect series at https://www.itu.int/space-connect/ You can watch videos from the ITU Space Connect webinar series on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpoIPNlF8P2MfrAePbmXKBhvq0LwyGyYS 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of digital technologies. #SpaceSafety #AIinSpace #ITU #TechMonthly #SatelliteTechnology #SpaceDebris #Sustainability #digitalinnovation ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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.

🌍 ITU Tech Monthly – Episode 003: All you ever wanted to know about space safety In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, host Max Jacobson-Gonzalez explores the rapidly evolving world of space safety, sustainability, and security with special guest Thomas Gonzalez Roberts, Academic in Residence at the International Telecommunication Union and incoming professor at Georgia Tech. 🚀 What’s inside: Why the night sky is filling up with satellites The growing risks of orbital debris and radiofrequency interference How AI is revolutionizing space safety The role of major players in shaping the orbital landscape The environmental impact of satellite deorbiting What the future holds for space governance and global cooperation 🔭 Whether you're a space enthusiast, tech professional, or just curious about the future of our skies, this episode offers a fascinating look at the challenges and innovations shaping the final frontier. 📡 Learn more about ITU’s work in space at www.itu.int And check out ITU's Space Connect series at https://www.itu.int/space-connect/ You can watch videos from the ITU Space Connect webinar series on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpoIPNlF8P2MfrAePbmXKBhvq0LwyGyYS 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of digital technologies. #SpaceSafety #AIinSpace #ITU #TechMonthly #SatelliteTechnology #SpaceDebris #Sustainability #digitalinnovation ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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.

H.E. Alar Karis, President, Republic of Estonia shares his insights following his keynote speeches at the AI for Good Global Summit and the WSIS+20 High-Level Event, Geneva, Switzerland, 10 July 2025. Interviewer and Director: Maximillian Jacobson - Gonzalez Produced and Edited by: Jennifer MacLeod

In this special episode of Technologized, host Gretchen Bueermann sits down with Muath AlRumayh, Vice Chair of the Informal Expert Group (IEG) for the World Telecommunication/ICT Policy Forum (WTPF), to explore the critical themes shaping WTPF 2026. 🌐 From bridging digital and intelligent divides to advancing space connectivity, green digital transformation, and resilient ICT infrastructure, this conversation dives deep into how global collaboration can ensure a more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative digital future. 🔍 Topics covered: - The growing gap in AI access and digital skills - Space economy and direct-to-device connectivity - Environmental sustainability in tech - Cyber resilience and ICT infrastructure - Innovation ecosystems and entrepreneurship 📅 With WTPF 2026 on the horizon, discover why this moment is pivotal for global digital policy and how the forum is preparing to meet the challenges of our rapidly evolving tech landscape. Read the new draft report here: https://www.itu.int/md/S24-WTPF26PREP... and make your voice heard through the open consultation: https://wtpf.itu.int/2026/consultatio... 🎙️ Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more conversations on tech for good! #WTPF2026 #DigitalInclusion #TechPolicy #AI #SpaceConnectivity #GreenTech #ICTInnovation #TechnologizedPodcast 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 Tech Monthly – Episode 002: All you ever wanted to know about GeoAI

🎙️ Presented by Max Jacobson-Gonzalez | 🎧 Guest: Andrea Manara (ITU)

In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, we explore the transformative power of GeoAI—the fusion of geospatial data and artificial intelligence—and how it's shaping a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

Join us as Andrea Manara from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) shares real-world applications of GeoAI, from enhancing food security with the FAO, to detecting illegal activities in the Amazon with UNODC, and even estimating pollution levels using satellite imagery in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano.

🔍 Topics covered:

• What is GeoAI and why it matters Geospatial foundation models and their capabilities
• Integration with 6G, IoT, and next-gen networks
• Real-world use cases in sustainable development
• Ethical considerations and data bias The future of democratized
• GeoAI tools

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, policymaker, or just curious about how AI is helping humanity, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of digital innovation.

📌 Subscribe to ITU Tech Monthly for more insights

visit: www.itu.int

🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

#GeoAI #SustainableDevelopment #ITU #ArtificialIntelligence #GeospatialData #TechForGood #DigitalInnovation #UNTech #SmartTech #ITUtechmonthly

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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.

🌍 ITU Tech Monthly – Episode 002: All you ever wanted to know about GeoAI

🎙️ Presented by Max Jacobson-Gonzalez | 🎧 Guest: Andrea Manara (ITU)

In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, we explore the transformative power of GeoAI—the fusion of geospatial data and artificial intelligence—and how it's shaping a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

Join us as Andrea Manara from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) shares real-world applications of GeoAI, from enhancing food security with the FAO, to detecting illegal activities in the Amazon with UNODC, and even estimating pollution levels using satellite imagery in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano.

🔍 Topics covered:

• What is GeoAI and why it matters Geospatial foundation models and their capabilities
• Integration with 6G, IoT, and next-gen networks
• Real-world use cases in sustainable development
• Ethical considerations and data bias The future of democratized
• GeoAI tools

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, policymaker, or just curious about how AI is helping humanity, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of digital innovation.

📌 Subscribe to ITU Tech Monthly for more insights

visit: www.itu.int

🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

#GeoAI #SustainableDevelopment #ITU #ArtificialIntelligence #GeospatialData #TechForGood #DigitalInnovation #UNTech #SmartTech #ITUtechmonthly

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 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.