Geneva, November 17, 2025: The Center of Policy Research and Governance (CPRG), in collaboration with the South Centre and IT for Change, hosted a high-level pre-summit dialogue in Geneva on “Advancing Innovation for Equitable AI Access” at the Palais des Nations, Room VIII, Geneva. Organised with the support of the Permanent Mission of India to the UN in Geneva, the session formed part of the official lead- up to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026. The event brought together global experts, practitioners, and policy leaders to discuss how countries can ensure that AI systems remain inclusive, accessible, and grounded in real needs on the ground.
The conversation focused on the practical challenges facing the Global South in adopting responsible AI. Participants highlighted the need for stronger AI literacy in education, better teacher training, support for youth reskilling, and the development of tools that countries can adapt to their own contexts.
Speaking at the session, Dr Ramanand, Director, CPRG, said: “From our work with students and young workers, the message is clear. People want AI tools they can actually use. Real impact will come when countries put simple and accessible solutions on the ground, whether in learning, skilling, or public services. If we get the basics right, AI can genuinely widen opportunities rather than gaps”.
The dialogue also reflected the broader expectations from the India-AI Impact Summit 2026. As Shri Arindam Bagchi, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in Geneva, noted, “We hope the AI Impact Summit 2026 becomes more than an event. It should deliver practical outcomes and digital public goods that countries can adopt easily. The goal is to move from buzz to real solutions that make a difference on the ground.” The session was also attended by Ms. Anita Gurumurthy (IT for Change) and Dr. Carlos M. Correa (Executive Director, South Centre), whose contributions added important perspectives on public-interest technology and global digital cooperation.
The discussion is part of CPRG’s Future of Society initiative, which examines how emerging technologies reshape institutions and everyday life. It also forms one of CPRG’s ongoing pre-summit engagements in the lead-up to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026.