Events Repository

Organized on 11 December 2024 through SIGHT Groups Coordination Workshops

Description

This workshop is designed to empower SIGHT groups and IEEE members to ignite transformative community initiatives. By learning from the successes of the Outstanding SIGHT Groups in Region 8, attendees will uncover invaluable strategies for executing impactful projects that drive local change and achieve excellence. Additionally, the session will offer an in-depth overview of the IEEE SIGHT Awards, inspiring participants to aspire toward recognition by creating initiatives that make a difference.

Speaker

Omar Salameh has been an IEEE Member since 2016, held several leading positions in his student branch, and was the professional activities officer in the IEEE Jordan Section. Professionally, he is an Electrical Engineer with 4 years’ experience in the power generation sector. Currently, he is doing my master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Renewable Energy Systems at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, and he is a member of the IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee.

Ahmed Aouididi has a strong background in computer engineering and a passion for continuous learning and innovation. A graduate of the Faculty of Science of Tunis (FST), Ahmed currently works as a C/C++ Software Developer where he leverages his expertise to deliver high-performance solutions. Ahmed is an active member of the IEEE community, holding key positions such as the IEEE Tunisia SIGHT Group Chair (2023–2024). In his free time, he stays abreast of the latest advancements in technology, including Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Computer Vision.

Organized on 10 December 2024 through Connecting Humanitarian Experts Webinars

Description

This webinar is your gateway to understanding Sustainable Development Goal #7, entitled “Affordable and Clean Energy,” and is focused on combining the concept of Green Energy with Climate Change.

Speaker

Simay Akar Koehler has been working in the energy industry since 2012. She specialized in solar and renewable energy fields. She is currently an IEEE HTB Member and MOVE Global Committee Chair & CEO and Founder at AKEC. In addition to her professional acclimates, she is an IEEE Senior Member, an acknowledged volunteer since 2007, and currently she is serving the IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board as the MGA Representative.

Organized in-person in Bari, Italy, on 28-29 November 2024

Description

The IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Activities Congress brings together SIGHT group members, humanitarian technology enthusiasts, and community development advocates from across Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Attendees have the opportunity to share results, lessons learned, and experiences and to discuss and address various humanitarian and community development projects, promoting the use of technology for social good. In 2024, it will be held in parallel with the IEEE International Humanitarian Technology Conference (IEEE IHTC) at Politecnico di Bari (Bari, Italy) on November 28-29, 2024.

Patronage

Sessions

Workshop on SIGHT Group Activities, Operations and Management

28 November 2024 • 5:30pm – 7:30pm

This workshop will provide information and resources for current and prospective SIGHT Group volunteers. Participants will learn how to start and operate your SIGHT Group, and they will share information and resources specific to the primary activities of such groups. The main components of these groups include implementing humanitarian technology and sustainable development projects, organizing training and professional development activities, as well as building group’s capacities with collaboration with local communities and industries.

Ignite Session on SIGHT Group Stories to Inspire and Get Inspired

29 November 2024 • 9am – 11am

In this session, SIGHT groups will be able to share their stories, including their activities, projects, and collaborations, in order to inspire their colleagues. This session will bring together R8 SIGHT group volunteers to share results, lessons learned, and experiences with peers across Europe, Middle East, and Africa.

Ignite Session on Humanitarian Project Opportunities and Successfully Implemented Projects

29 November 2024 • 2pm – 4pm

In this session, project leaders from successfully closed projects in Region 8 will be invited to share their experiences from the application submission stage to the project implementation, reporting, and finally closure. This session will discuss various humanitarian and community development projects taking place in Europe, Middle East, and Africa, and will promote the use of technology for social good. At the same time, it will be a gateway to dive into various IHT programs and initiatives to apply technology and solve the world’s most pressing problems with support from IEEE.

Workshop on Humanitarian Project Planning and Execution

29 November 2024 • 4:30pm – 6:30pm

This workshop will enable participants to think about what is humanitarian for them and if there are any community challenges around them. It will interactively guide people on how to prepare humanitarian technology project proposals for IHT programs, focusing on sustainable development, avoiding common pitfalls, and collaborating effectively with local communities and industries.

Speakers and Facilitators

Mariela Machado Fantacchiotti

IEEE Humanitatian Technologies Senior Director

Mariela Machado is a skilled professional with nearly two decades of experience building, deploying, and scaling international humanitarian programs at the intersection of technology, social/environmental impact and public policy in the private sector, public sector and academia. As the Senior Director of Humanitarian Technology at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Mariela leads multiple programs at the intersection of social/environmental impact and technology for this engineering society worldwide. Prior to IEEE, she was the Director of Programs at Newlab, a social innovation hub focused on scaling transformative technologies through public-private partnerships; she was also the Senior Program Manager at the American Society of Mechanical Engineer (ASME) & Engineering for Change working to support technology for sustainable development across all continents. Mariela advises capstone projects at the intersection of digital technology and policy at the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Columbia University and teaches a class on emerging digital technology for social and environmental impact. She is a Telecommunication Engineer with MSc in Information and Communication Technologies and a MPA in Sustainable Development from Columbia University. Mariela is fluent in 5 languages: Spanish, English, French, Swedish and Italian.

Lwanga Herbert

2024 IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board Chair

Lwanga Herbert is an innovation and technology enthusiast and practitioner inspired by technological solutions to diverse problems and challenges. He is the Co-founder of M/S LOGEL GROUP LTD, an IT company based in Uganda and the co-founder of Logel Science Foundation, a civil society organization which conducts research and development in science and technology. Lwanga Herbert was a beneficiary of the presidential innovation fund in Uganda from 2000-2005, which allowed him to develop a variety of innovations to address corresponding community challenges. These innovations were patented with the support of the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. He has made several contributions within the IEEE community, which includes co-founding the IEEE Uganda Section and implementing humanitarian projects and programs in Uganda with IEEE support.

Theodoros Chatzinikolaou

Chair of IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee

Theodoros is a PhD Candidate in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department of the Democritus University of Thrace, and has received his Engineering Diploma with Integrated Master from the aforementioned Department. His research interests focus on future and emerging computing systems and cutting-edge technologies, including memristive circuits and systems and artificial intelligence technologies. As an active IEEE volunteer, he strongly believes he can create a valuable impact on humanity and society via engineering through volunteerism, and, thus, he is, currently, chairing the IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee, along with being a member of the IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board Outreach and Ad-Hoc on Partnerships Committees. He has served many conferences as well as various IEEE OUs including MGA SAC, his Region as Student Representative, and his local Student Branch as Chair. He has received the IEEE MGA Young Professionals Achievement Award, the IEEE CASS Pre-Doctoral Grant, the IEEE MGA Larry K. Wilson Regional Student Activities Award, as well as a bronze medal from the SEEMOUS Mathematical Olympiad.

Abdullateef Aliyu

IEEE Smart Village Senior Vice-President

Abdullateef is the General Manager of Projects at Phase 3 Telecom, a leading aerial fiber-optic network infrastructure provider in West Africa. He also serves as Senior Vice President of IEEE Smart Village and chairs the IEEE Region 8 Student Activities Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Bayero University Kano and a master’s in ICT from Northern University of Malaysia, He is a Fellow of the Nigeria Society of Engineers and a Professional Member of the Eta Chapter Board of Governors. An alumnus of the U.S. Telecommunication Training Institute, he joined Phase 3 Telecom in 2013, leading significant projects across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. Notable achievements include implementing Phase 3 Telecom’s 100G transmission network in Nigeria, as a volunteer, he founded the IEEE Smart Village Africa Working Group in 2020 which now has over 1000 volunteers represented in 44 African countries. His accolades include the Leadership and Innovative Award and Best Creativity Award by Phase 3 Telecom in 2022 and 2023, IEEE Smart Village Excellence in Leadership Award 2022, and IEEE Nigeria Section Award of Excellence 2022. He has also received recognition from the NSE Maitama branch for Excellence in Leadership and Innovation in 2022, 2023, and 2024, the MGA Board YP Award, and the IEEE Nigeria Section for his contributions and volunteerism.

Stephanie Gillespie

Chair of EPICS in IEEE

Dr. Stephanie Gillespie is an Associate Dean at Tagliatela College of Engineering at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, USA. She has been a service learning practitioner for 5 years, including development of community partners and supporting student teams with real-world, client-based engineering for nonprofit organizations. Her current research interests span multiple areas of engineering education including makerspaces, multidisciplinary teams, gender diversity and minority retention, and entrepreneurial mindset. Her PhD from Georgia Tech focused on machine learning and signal processing for affective computing, specifically detecting stress and depression in adults with communication disorders. She is currently serving as the Chair of the EPICS in IEEE committee, and is also involved with the Society of Women Engineers and American Society for Engineering Education.

George Papadimitriou

IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee Member

Georgios (George) Papadimitriou studied at the Electrical and Computer Engineering department at the National Technical University of Athens. Currently, he is working for HILTI, Global IT in Switzerland as an IT Product Owner. Previously he worked for Nokia Research & Development at their Technology Center in Athens, Greece. Since 2012, he volunteered as the Chair of the National Technical University of Athens IEEE Student Branch, the IEEE Greece Section’s Student Representative and the Region 8 Projects and Initiatives Coordinator fostering student collaboration and leading fruitful projects across the Region. In 2018 he was appointed to his second role in the Student Activities Committee as the Regional Student Representative and as a member of the Region 8 Strategic Planning Committee.

Miriam Cunningham

IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee Member

Miriam Cunningham (IEEE Senior Member, IEEE-HKN) is a technology and innovation expert with over 25 years experience working with education and research, industry and government organisations to support ICT4Development/ Digital Development in Africa and Europe. Miriam specialises in contributing to policy analysis, research capacity building, adaptation and implementation of appropriate technology addressing societal challenges in low resource environments. Miriam has extensive experience as Co-Principal Investigator of large-scale digital technology innovation oriented cross-border and regional projects in Europe and Africa. She has co-organised over 45 large international conferences around the world, including both IEEE and government hosted conferences. Miriam is also Head of Research of the not-for-profit IST-Africa Institute, working in strategic partnership with Ministries and National Councils responsible for Innovation, Science and Technology in 18 African Member States. Miriam has served in senior IEEE volunteer roles including Member, IEEE SSIT Board of Governors (2020 – 2025) and IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board (2023).

Nour Sbaoulji

IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee Member

Nour Sbaoulji is a dedicated final-year Software Engineering student specializing in web development. Currently serving as a member of the IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee (R8 HTAC) and Treasurer of the IEEE SIGHT Tunisia Section, Nour has demonstrated a profound commitment to leveraging technology for positive social impact. As a former Chairwoman and co-founder of the IEEE ESPRIT SIGHT Group, she played a pivotal role in establishing the first SIGHT group in Tunisia, setting a precedent for impactful community-focused initiatives. In addition to her roles within the IEEE, she has served as an ambassador for several international initiatives, including the International Humanitarian Technology Conference (IHTC), IEEE PES Day, and IEEEXtreme programming competition. Additionally, she has served as a judge in numerous distinguished international competitions, showcasing her dedication to promoting excellence and innovation in technology on a global scale.

Omar Salameh

IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities Committee Member

Omar Salameh is an IEEE Member since 2016, held several leading positions in the student branch, and was the professional activities officer in IEEE Jordan Section. Professionally, he is an Electrical Engineer with 4 years’ experience in power generation sector. Currently, he is doing my master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Renewable Energy Systems at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom.

Organized on 25, 26, 28, 30 September and 2, 4 October 2024

Schedule

1. mHealth4Afrika – Lessons Learnt and Good Practices from Co-Designing Technology Solutions • Miriam Cunningham • 25 September
2. Software for Humanity • Prof. Mike Hinchey • 26 September • IEEE Egypt Section SIGHT
3. Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Role of AI in Shaping the Future of Medicine • Dr. Khaled Khnissi • 28 September • IEEE Tunisia Section SIGHT
4. The Wealth of Well-being: Investing in Health for Success • Chukwuka Chidubem Uchenna • 30 September • IEEE Nnamdi Azikiwe University SB SIGHT
5. The synergy between the European and International Patient Summaries in the context of global health care • Prof. Constantinos S. Pattichis, Maria Papaioannou, Panayiotis Savva • 2 and 4 October

Webinar 1

mHealth4Afrika – Lessons Learnt and Good Practices from Co-Designing Technology Solutions

This webinar shares lessons learnt and good practices from mHealth4Afrika related to the co-design of an appropriate technological solution to address healthcare challenges in resource constrained environments. Supported by the European Commission, mHealth4Afrika co-designed and validated a state-of-the-art modular, extensible and multilingual standards based health information system to support strengthening primary healthcare delivery in resource constrained environments in Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi and South Africa.

Speaker

Miriam Cunningham is a seasoned ICT4Development expert with over 25 years experience. She specializes in using technology to address challenges in developing countries. As Head of Research at IST-Africa Institute, she collaborates with African governments to foster innovation. Cunningham is also a prominent IEEE member, holding leadership roles and organizing numerous international conferences. Her work focuses on policy analysis, capacity building, and technology adaptation for sustainable development.

Webinar 2

Software for Humanity

In this rapidly changing world, evolving technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Big Data, the Internet of Things, and Mobile Computing are combining to disrupt traditional models and radically change how we live, work, and interact. More importantly, these technologies change the way we live and do business: the world’s largest bookstore is a Cloud Computing provider, and the largest fleet of cars in the world is operated by an app provider. Areas such as healthcare have been transformed dramatically, with better analysis, imaging, detection, diagnosis, treatment, robot-assisted surgery, and even significant advances in sharing health records. We eagerly await the day when cars, buses, trucks, and railways are self-driven, and Industry 4.0 is already upon us, and of course we claim the use of AI in just about everything. All of these advances are entirely dependent on software. But given our dependence on software, how can it advance humanity? How can we use it to improve our lives, our world, our environment?

Speaker

Prof. Mike Hinchey is Professor of Software Engineering at University of Limerick, Ireland, where he was previously Head of Department of Computer Science and Information Systems and Director of Lero-the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Software. He is Past President of IFIP and Past Chair of the IEEE UK & Ireland Section. He is Director-elect of IEEE Region 8 and serves on IEEE Computer Society Board of Governors. Prior to joining University of Limerick, Prof. Hinchey was the Director of the NASA Software Engineering Laboratory.

Webinar 3

Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Role of AI in Shaping the Future of Medicine

This talk explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the healthcare industry. The presentation covers the fundamentals of AI and robotics in healthcare, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. It highlights real-world applications such as AI-assisted diagnosis, personalized treatments, drug discovery, robotic surgery, and remote patient monitoring. The session concludes with future trends, showcasing how AI will continue to revolutionize healthcare by improving patient outcomes and reshaping medical practices.

Speaker

Dr. Khaled Khnissi is an engineer specializing in robotics and artificial intelligence. He earned his mechatronics engineering degree from the National Engineering School of Carthage (ENICAR) in 2015 and his Ph.D. from the National Superior School of Engineers of Tunis in 2021.his primary research interests include robotic controls and machine learning.His current research focuses on autonomous navigation of mobile robots using simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) with artificial intelligence, as well as real-time traffic sign recognition (TSR) using deep learning techniques.

Webinar 4

The Wealth of Well-being: Investing in Health for Success

In this session, we explore the undeniable connection between well-being and prosperity, focusing on how investments in health lead to thriving individuals, communities, and economies. The speaker will share insights on the critical role of preventive care, mental health, and equitable healthcare access in fostering long-term success. By addressing the health challenges faced by vulnerable populations, we highlight strategies to create a more resilient, productive, and prosperous global society. Join us to learn how prioritizing well-being drives sustainable growth and empowers communities

Speaker

Chidubem Uchenna Chukwuka is a mental health advocate, entrepreneur, coach, and student leader. He blends creativity with leadership in both clinical studies and entrepreneurial ventures. Noteworthy achievements include leading a team in the Youth Leadership Program(YLP 2021/22) to develop a fully sponsored Mental Health Advocacy project, winning the Best Performing Subcommittee Member of the year award and winning the Outstanding Merit-Based Mentees Award at GELA’s West African Foreign Mentorship Program.

Webinar 5

The synergy between the European and International Patient Summaries in the context of global health care

As preparation for submitting humanitarian technology project proposals, the SIGHT teams are usually expected to cooperate with a local community to undertake a needs assessment to identify community-specific challenges that can be addressed through the This webinar discusses the European Patient Summary (EPS), a key part of improving cross-border healthcare in Europe. It examines how the EPS aligns with international standards and is being implemented in different countries. The lecture also explores how the EPS works with similar international efforts and concludes by highlighting the potential impact of regulations and joint actions on creating a better healthcare system for European citizens.

Speakers

Constantinos S. Pattichis currently a professor at the University of Cyprus with a 30-year career in eHealth, medical imaging, and intelligent systems. He leads research at the CYENS Centre of Excellence, focusing on innovative healthcare technologies. With extensive experience in EU-funded projects, he has secured over 20 million euros in funding. His research output includes numerous publications, book chapters, and edited volumes. He is a distinguished Fellow of multiple prestigious organizations, recognizing his significant contributions to the field.

Maria Papaioannou is an interoperability expert and project manager in eHealth systems, specializing in biobanking and health data utilization. Her PhD in computational intelligence equipped her with advanced algorithmic skills, which she applies to healthcare and political systems. With a focus on primary and secondary use of health data, she ensures effective information exchange for clinical and research purposes. Her expertise bridges technical and strategic aspects, driving innovation in eHealth and data interoperability.

Panayiotis Savva is a healthcare interoperability expert with a BSc in computing and an MBA. He currently serves as the member state co-chair of the technical interoperability subgroup of the European eHealth Network, where he leads and contributes to the development of eHealth guidelines. Additionally, he works as the technical coordinator for the Xt-EHR joint action and as a special scientist and software architect at the University of Cyprus, focusing on eHealth initiatives and HL7 FHIR standards.

Organized on 24 August 2024 through SIGHT Groups Coordination Workshops

Description

An exclusive workshop tailored for Region 8 SIGHT Groups, where we unveil unparalleled funding opportunities within the IEEE. In this engaging session, we will delve into the humanitarian funding domain, focusing on the IEEE Smart Village and EPICS in IEEE initiatives. Our expert speakers will illuminate the path to securing funding, offering insights into the application process, project eligibility criteria, and the crucial details that can elevate your proposal. This workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to maximize your impact and drive meaningful change within your local community through your SIGHT groups and volunteers.

Speaker

Abdullateef Aliyu is a telecommunications expert with a strong academic and professional background. As General Manager at Phase 3 Telecom, he oversees major fiber-optic network projects across West Africa. He’s also actively involved in IEEE, leading student activities and promoting smart village initiatives. His career is marked by significant achievements in the telecom industry, earning numerous awards for his leadership and innovation.

Samarth Deo is a software engineer leader with a strong background in R&D. Currently heading the Software department at Hitachi Energy, he has been instrumental in developing and maintaining the MACH control platform. Prior to this, he held various leadership roles at ABB, including R&D Manager for the Firmware & SDK team. Samarth is actively involved in the IEEE community, serving as Chair of the EPICS in IEEE committee and IEEE Sweden Section. He has received multiple awards for his contributions and has recently been appointed Chair of the AdHoc on EPICS in IEEE within Region 8. Outside of work, Deo enjoys photography and cooking.

Organized on 4, 18, 25 July and 1 August 2024

Description

As preparation for submitting humanitarian technology project proposals, the SIGHT teams are usually expected to cooperate with a local community to undertake a needs assessment to identify community-specific challenges that can be addressed through the appropriate use of technological innovation. These webinars focus on practical aspects associated with preparing and implementing projects that support local communities through the appropriate use of technological innovation.

Schedule

1. Community Support Program – Focus and Objectives – 4 July
2. Needs Assessment and Community Engagement – 18 July
3. Designing a Community Support Implementation Plan and Budget – 25 July
4. Impact Assessment – 1 August

Hackathon finals were organized during 2024 IEEE R8 SYP Congress on 18 July 2024

Description

IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technologies Hackathon fosters competition amongst IEEE and SIGHT members through their solutions to specific humanitarian challenges and targets tech proposals around specific UN SDGs. In particular, the 2023 challenges were focused around SDG #4 (quality education), #6 (clean water and sanitation), and #9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure).

Agenda

• Introduction to IEEE Humanitarian Technologies and IEEE Tech4Good & SIGHT
• Humanitarian Technology Activities in IEEE Region 8 and R8/T4G Community Support Program
• Submitting a Strong T4G Proposal and Examples of Past Funded Projects in R8
• Finalists Presentations and Q&A
• Awards Ceremony during Gala Dinner

Organized on 28 April 2024 through Connecting Humanitarian Experts Webinars

Description

Connecting Humanitarian Experts webinars are focused on humanitarian topics based on global Sustainable Development Goals. This webinar is your gateway to understanding Sustainable Development Goal #4, entitled “Quality Education,” and is focused on establishing sustainable education from pre-university to lifelong education.

Speaker

Stamatis Dragoumanos boasts a strong academic background in engineering and computer science. With 18 years of software development experience, he currently excels as a software architect. Beyond technical expertise, his passion lies in education. For 12 years, he’s instilled programming knowledge in students while emphasizing crucial soft skills often overlooked in traditional learning. Stamatis actively contributes to the IEEE in various leadership roles, demonstrating his dedication to advancing engineering education, and is currently chairing the IEEE EAB PreUniversity Education Coordination Committee.

Organized on 24 February 2024 through SIGHT Groups Coordination Workshops

Description

Dive into key topics, including effective management of humanitarian volunteer groups, project coordination, and overcoming challenges in team-community relations. Learn about structuring SIGHT Groups, establishing collaborations for funding, and fostering membership growth. Gain valuable insights into navigating the complexities of humanitarian projects.

Speaker

Dr. Kennedy Okafor is a globally recognized expert in AI, cloud data centers, and green energy analytics. With a Ph.D. in digital electronics and computer engineering, he holds multiple leadership roles in academia and industry. As a Senior IEEE Member and recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Okafor has secured over £2M in research grants. His work combines academic excellence with practical industry applications, resulting in impactful projects and contributions to the field.

Organized on 17 December 2023 through Connecting Humanitarian Experts Webinars

Description

Connecting Humanitarian Experts webinars are focused on humanitarian topics based on global Sustainable Development Goals. This webinar, supported by IEEE Smart Cities, is your gateway to sustainable cities and communities.

Speaker

Georges Zissis is a renowned expert in light source science and technology. A distinguished professor at Toulouse III University, he has dedicated his career to researching electrical discharges, lighting systems, and the broader impact of lighting on society. With a strong academic background and numerous awards, including the IEC Centenary Challenge and Energy Globe Award, Zissis is a leading figure in the field. He is actively involved in standardization, quality, and energy efficiency efforts in lighting, and his work has significantly influenced the industry and policymaking.

Prof. Toby Cumberbatch, an electrical engineer, dedicated his career to addressing the needs of impoverished communities. He taught at The Cooper Union from 1994 to 2018, focusing on Engineering for the Middle of Nowhere. Inspired by his childhood in West Africa, he founded SociaLite Lighting Systems in 2017. This nonprofit designs and installs lighting systems and micro-grids in areas without infrastructure. Complete systems provide light, audiovisual facilities, and general charging capabilities for cellphones, small tools, and devices for the measurement of health vitals. Cumberbatch continues to develop these technologies and support SociaLite’s work in Ghana and beyond.