Digital governance, AI to take centre stage at ICEGOV 2024

25 September 2024

South Africa’s Department of Public Service and Administration, the Centre for Public Service Innovation and the Wits School of Governance (Wits University) in partnership with United Nations University will host the 17th edition of ICEGOV, the International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance, from 1 to 4 October 2024.

Conceived in 2007, this is an annual gathering to bring together academia, governments, international organisations, civil society, and industry to share the latest insights and experiences in the theory and practice of Electronic Governance (now more commonly referred to as Digital Governance).

This year, the theme is Trust and Ethical Digital Governance for the World We Want.

The theme selection is framed at a critical juncture where the Global Digital Compact is being endorsed at the UN Summit of the Future in September 2024, and South Africa is set to take up presidency of the G20 from December 2024. The discussions will thus frame both global and region-specific dialogues with particular focus on Africa, the BRICS, and the Global South.

Key subjects to be discussed include:

  • Digital transformation and innovation in the public sector 
  • Governing digital economies between the private and public sectors
  • Drivers and determinants of success in adopting and implementing AI in public organisations 
  • Building inclusive Artificial Intelligence 
  • Smart sustainable cities and communities for people
  • Developing future-ready digital workforce and digital infrastructure 
  • Measuring digital government for equitable and inclusive outcomes
  • Role of social media and new digital platforms

South Africa’s Minister for the Public Service and Administration Department, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, said the government strongly supports this conference because it aims to bring together thought leaders and practitioners to drive meaningful progress in this critical area.

“The Department of Public Service and Administration’s Digital Government policy framework, which adopts a comprehensive approach to leveraging digital technologies for the delivery of public services, enhancing government operational efficiency, and fostering a citizen-centric approach to governance, stands to benefit significantly from the learnings and insights shared during this conference,” added Minister Buthelezi.

Local organising Chair and Head of the Wits School of Governance, Professor Themba Maseko said this conference is monumental as South Africa and the global South seek ways of strengthening its digital governance capabilities. 

“The ethical principles that guide digital technology and governance, through transparency, accountability, and respect for privacy create a digital landscape for us to live better lives in all contexts. We will be covering different aspects of digital governance, with fascinating insights and experiences from an African perspective,” said Maseko.

Associate Professor Geci Karuri-Sebina, also Programme Committee Chair, said this edition of ICEGOV is special because it’s taking place on the African continent and will bring voices of academics, government officials, and other key stakeholders representing the Global South. 

“This conference will comprise interactive workshops to address real-world challenges and develop practical solutions towards a trustworthy and inclusive digital transformation. There will be extensive networking opportunities to connect with research and colleagues from across Africa and the globe,” said Karuri-Sebina.

Media attendance and interviews:

Please contact: Kemantha Govender, WSG Communications Manager on 084 737 6522 or Kemantha.govender1@wits.ac.za 

 

Digital Governance