The number of refugees is on the rise. The need for humanitarian efforts is increasing. Be it human or natural disasters, the world
is facing a gripping statistic of individuals who have been forced to live in
destitute conditions. While the efforts have become more strategic, the rate at
which aid is needed is multiplying by the second. It is but a clear indication
for humanitarian projects and funding organisations to start investing in
technology. Technology as a means to quicken donor response, magnify utilization
of resources for humanitarian workers, provide better facilities for the
refugees and disaster struck individuals. The focus can also be directed towards
bringing long term solutions to the individuals affected by these crises.
Professionals working on field have a rich understanding of
the conditions and requirements of the affected individuals. Creating
substantial platforms for field professionals to communicate this understanding
to technological firms would give new light to the developmental efforts. Better
yet provide training to individuals or craft courses in the area of
humanitarian sciences and technology. An interdisciplinary background will help
establish a solid foundation to design need specific technical solutions. "Rather than have existing technology fuse into the humanitarian aid sector, our
efforts should be directed towards innovating technological solutions from
within" stressed a doctors without border professional at an IDRC Panel discussion . Not only will that have a stronger, long lasting impact but will pave
way for more meaningful research. This kind of approach to technological
innovation helps connect to individuals at a ground level since the technology
is designed with a user centric feel.
There
is an immediate need to incorporate technology to our developmental efforts. A
future without technology will not get us far, at least not where we are
capable of going. New technology for humanitarian aid would arise from renewed
strategies and design thinking. The future lies in maneuvering this tool to
develop effective solutions
_______________________________________________________________
The need for technology was emphasized during an IDRC (International Development Research Council, Canada) panel discussion addressing the future of Humanitarian response. The panel discussion can be found below
0 comments:
Post a Comment