From October 5th to 7th, 2024, Yerevan, Armenia, became the global hub of innovation as it hosted the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) for the second time since 2019. The event, known for bringing together industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, and innovators from around the world, focused this year on the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI), under the captivating headline “THE POWER OF MIND.”
Our team was thrilled to participate in WCIT 2024, especially after the remarkable experience during the 2019 congress.
About WCIT: A Global Platform for Innovation and Technology
The World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) is one of the most influential technology events in the world, organized by the World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA). It serves as a platform where thought leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and researchers gather to discuss the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the world of technology. From exploring cutting-edge AI advancements to discussing the ethical implications of technology, WCIT has always stood out for its thought-provoking discussions and visionary ideas.
This year’s theme, “THE POWER OF MIND,” emphasized the potential of AI in transforming industries and shaping the future of humanity. It was a call to action for the tech community to harness the power of artificial intelligence to address some of the world’s most pressing issues.
Highlights of Healthcare Sessions at WCIT 2024
Healthcare was a major focus during WCIT 2024, with three notable sessions shedding light on the transformative role of AI in medicine and healthcare systems:
Fireside Chat: Choosing Impossible Missions and the Use of AI in Revolutionizing Medicine Discovery
Presented by Noubar Afeyan and Garo Armen, this session explored current trends in biotechnology and the groundbreaking implementation of AI in drug discovery. M. Afeyan and M. Armen discussed how AI is reshaping the way we understand and develop new medical treatments, aiming to solve complex challenges in healthcare.
Keynote Speech: AI and Machine Learning in Imaging: From Medicine to Entertainment and Security
Delivered by Benoit Macq, this keynote focused on the diverse applications of AI and machine learning in imaging technologies. Macq highlighted how these innovations are not only advancing the field of medicine but also impacting other sectors like entertainment and security, showcasing AI’s broad potential.
Panel Discussion: Impact of Digital Transformation in Health System Management: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions
Featuring experts Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan, Dr. Siddhartha Datta WHO Head of Country Office in Armenia, and Tigran Tshorokhyan from UNDP, this panel addressed the significant changes digital transformation is bringing to health system management. Discussions included the opportunities and challenges posed by these changes, with an emphasis on the future directions for integrating AI and digital tools into healthcare.
The Challenges Faced by WCIT 2024 and Suggestions for Improvement
While WCIT 2024 brought together global tech leaders, several challenges impacted its success. The event began with a delayed start, followed by a major power outage that disrupted scheduled sessions, frustrating attendees. Sparse attendance, a lack of groundbreaking innovations, and uninspiring speeches further detracted from the experience. Technical issues with sound quality also hampered audience engagement, which was disappointing given the high expectations set by the event’s steep ticket prices. To enhance future editions, better contingency planning, more engaging and diverse speakers, a stronger emphasis on showcasing innovation, and more affordable ticket pricing would significantly elevate the event’s value and attract a wider audience.
Moving Forward: The Road Ahead for WCIT
While WCIT 2024 had its challenges, the event still played a vital role in bringing together global leaders to discuss AI’s potential in shaping the future of technology and innovation. For future editions, a focus on seamless organization, innovative content, and engaging experiences will be crucial to maintaining WCIT’s position as a leading platform in the tech world.
As we reflect on our participation in WCIT 2024, we’re already looking ahead to how we can contribute to future discussions on AI, digital health, and technological advancements. Our mission remains to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation, leveraging AI and technology to create a brighter, more connected future for all.
