Industry Leaders Highlight Essential Role of Digital Access for Society
Telecom leaders at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on February 11th highlighted the mutual benefits of improved connectivity: enhanced lives for those most in need and boosted business for service providers.
The panel, “Can we innovate our way to a more connected world?”, moderated by TIME’s Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs, featured Vodafone Group CEO Margherita Della Valle stating that connectivity is now fundamental. She described a shift from a “haves and have-nots” divide to one based on digital access.
The UN reports that roughly a third of the global population lacks internet access; Della Valle noted that 300 million of these individuals reside in remote areas beyond existing infrastructure reach. She proposed satellite technology as a solution, mentioning Vodafone’s upcoming launch of a direct-to-smartphone satellite service in Europe.
Hatem Dowidar, group CEO of e&, formerly Etisalat Group, argued that businesses can simultaneously serve consumer needs and their own interests. He explained that connecting people generates revenue and fuels further growth, highlighting e&’s expansion into fintech, cybersecurity, and cloud services.
Mickey Mikitani, CEO of Rakuten Group, called for a telecom industry overhaul, deeming the current model outdated. He suggested that reducing barriers to entry, such as the cost of accessing wireless spectrum, could broadly benefit consumers and society.
The discussion also covered AI’s potential to enhance connectivity and the role of networks in supporting AI. Mikitani cited Rakuten’s efficient AI-driven network management, while Della Valle stressed the need for robust networks to support AI, noting that under-invested countries might struggle.
Dowidar urged summit attendees to engage with industry leaders on legislation and regulation to address challenges such as data sovereignty, security, and the need for AI training beyond English.
Dowidar emphasized the importance of recognizing technology’s potential and the necessity of workforce training, concluding that “AI is going to change the world.”
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