20/05/2026
From Enugu to Global Stage: Professor Rita Orji Delivers Opening Keynote at United Nations, Positions Global South to Lead AI
The global conversation around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sustainable development took a remarkable turn at the United Nations Headquarters in New York as Nigerian-born professor and renowned computer scientist in Canada, Prof. Rita Orji, PhD, delivered the opening keynote at the 11th STI Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Addressing an audience of scientists, policymakers, innovators, diplomats, and civil society leaders from across the world, she delivered a thought-provoking keynote titled “Designing AI for the Majority World: Why the Global South Should Lead, Not Follow.”
In her address, she challenged the long-standing global narrative where technologies are designed primarily in developed nations and later exported to developing regions without considering their unique realities and needs. She argued passionately that the Global South should no longer be viewed as a passive consumer or late adopter of AI technologies, but rather as a vital frontier for innovation and design.
According to her, the most resilient, adaptive, and human-centred technologies often emerge from environments facing the hardest challenges, constrained resources, and the most diverse populations. Her message resonated strongly within the international audience, sparking meaningful conversations on the future of inclusive technology and equitable innovation.
Speaking on her social media after the event, Prof. Orji expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with global leaders on issues at the intersection of technology, policy, and development.
Her remarkable rise from humble beginnings in Nigeria to becoming one of the world’s respected voices in technology and research continues to inspire young Africans and scholars worldwide.
Today, she is a professor of Computer Science in Canada and a notable Research Chair recognised internationally for her groundbreaking work in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Digital Health, persuasive technology, and technology-driven behaviour change.
At Dalhousie University, she serves as Director of the Persuasive Computing Lab, where she leads innovative research focused on designing interactive technological interventions to solve real-life problems and encourage positive behavioural change.
Recall that in 2021, she was named among Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network, a recognition celebrating influential female leaders shaping Canada’s future.
In 2025, she further cemented her legacy after receiving the Dalhousie President’s Research Excellence Award for Research Impact.
Her appearance at the United Nations represents another milestone in a career defined by excellence, resilience, and global impact.
Her journey continues to inspire young people globally.
