CONNECTED-2024 Conference Unites Global Thought Leaders in Astana

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Oct. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The CONNECTED-2024 conference charted a path forward for humanity, drawing over 2,000 participants from 27 countries to Astana on October 18-19. The event showcased insights from leading experts on the intersection of technology and human values, fostering a synchronized vision aimed at tackling the rapid advancements in technology.

A Global Gathering of Innovators

Organized by the AITAS Foundation, the CONNECTED conference served as a rich platform for dialogue among internationally recognized thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Attendees hailed from diverse backgrounds, representing countries including the USA, UK, Germany, Switzerland, and many more. The gathering focused on the pressing need for collective consciousness and social transformation.

Serik Tolukpayev, entrepreneur and founder of AITAS, the event’s general sponsor, emphasized the importance of discussing the uncertainties faced in today’s world. “We face significant global challenges and conflicts across geopolitics, religion, and ideology. Together, we sought to explore a fundamental question: what should we do with our ego? It is vital that we pave the way for these discussions,” Tolukpayev stated. He further noted the importance of considering a future governed by human values and harmony.

Catalyzing Change through Diverse Perspectives

The conference embraced a unique “Open Mind” format, promoting creativity and collaboration across disciplines, from science to art. This innovative approach not only fostered empathy but also helped attendees connect over shared challenges. Ruslan Zhemkov, Co-founder and General Producer of the conference, commented, “Responsibility towards the world, respect for humanity, societal benefits, environmental stewardship, and investment in future generations are integral to our mission.”

Keynote speakers included renowned historian and author Yuval Noah Harari, who discussed the implications of emerging technologies. Harari expressed concern about Artificial Intelligence potentially developing its own values, stating, “Humans have always lived in a world crafted by human consciousness. However, as AI begins to generate new values, we must grapple with the ramifications for our political and financial systems.”

Balancing Technology and Humanity

Another prominent voice, futurist Gerd Leonhard, underscored the need to balance technological advancements with the preservation of human qualities. He highlighted that in an AI-dominated world, human worth should be measured by unique qualities rather than mere efficiency. Other distinguished speakers included Nobel laureate Rae Kwon Chung, President of the Association of Futurists Tanya Schindler, and Professor Peter Frankopan from the University of Oxford.

The conference also featured an exciting Startup Battle competition, showcasing innovative EdTech solutions from Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Five startups shared a prize fund of $50,000, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit and potential of the region.

A Permanent Global Platform for Dialogue

Looking to the future, the organizers of CONNECTED envision the conference as a permanent global platform for continuing discourse on vital global narratives and associated challenges. Supported by AITAS, the leading agro-industrial holding in Kazakhstan, the event collaborates with the Foundation for Sustainable Development of Education and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Engage with Us

The CONNECTED-2024 conference highlighted the urgency of addressing contemporary challenges while emphasizing the value of humanity in the age of technology. As discussions continue beyond the event, we encourage our readers to share their thoughts on how we can synchronize our visions for a sustainable future. Join the conversation in the comments below or share this article with your network.

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