About the Conference
The National Conference on Equitable Digital Access (NCEDA) is a platform that brings together experts, researchers, educators, developers, and advocates to advance the discourse on inclusive and accessible digital technologies. This program is organized by Ug. Department of Computer Applications, Marian College Kuttikkanam Autonomous in collaboration with the Mozilla Responsible Computing Challenge(RCC), NCEDA aims to empower developers and educators by fostering innovation in inclusive digital spaces, accessibility solutions, and responsible AI practices for the advancement of persons with disabilities.
Conference Highlights
Day 1 (February 11, 2025)
Inaugural Function
The inaugural function on the first day started with a ceremonial dance and an invocation song, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the event. The welcome address was delivered by the event organizers, Prof. Dr. Binu Thomas from the Department of Computer Applications followed by an introduction to the conference theme by Mr. Ajesh Joseph, Head of the School of Social Work & Co-Principal Investigator Responsible Computing Challenge, Mozilla, Marian College Kuttikanam. Prof. Dr. Ajimon George, Principal of Marian College Kuttikanam Autonomous, delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the importance of making technology, especially AI, accessible to all. This conference was inaugurated by Prof. P T Baburaj, Commissioner, State Commissionerate for people with disability, Government of Kerala.
Expert Session on Responsible AI
After a short break, Ms. Nidhi Sudhan, Co-founder of Citizen Digital Foundation, had a session on Responsible AI in building digital inclusivity. This topic focuses on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be developed and used ethically to ensure that digital technologies are accessible, fair, and beneficial to everyone.
Paper Presentations
Furthermore, Paper presentations were conducted by students from Marian College as well as other colleges in India. These presentations explored various aspects of technology and its role in fostering digital inclusivity. The topics ranged from AI applications in different industries to the challenges of creating equitable digital spaces.
Panel Discussion
A panel discussion titled "The Ethics of AI and Digital Equity: A Path Towards Inclusive Innovation" took place. This session featured an esteemed panel of experts including:
- ● Ms. Nidhi Sudhan - Co-Founder of Citizen Digital Foundation and one of the 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics.
- ● Dr. Jacob Boss, Assistant Professor, Department of MHTM, Marian College Kuttikanam Autonomous.
- ● Dr. Muralivallabhan, Director of MBA, Marian College Kuttikanam Autonomous & Vice Principal, Marian College Kuttikanam (Autonomous).
- ● Mr. Ajesh P Joseph, Head, School of Social Work, Marian College Kuttikkanam Autonomous.
- ● Prof. Sunny Jose, Director International Relations and Mobility at Loyola College of Social Sciences, Trivandrum.
Day 2 (February 12, 2025)
Keynote Session: Building Bridges
The second day of the conference began with a keynote session titled "Building Bridges: Creating an Inclusive Tech Ecosystem for Innovation and Equity," led by Mr. Anumod Alex Thomas, Principal Software Engineer at Silicon Cloud Hardware, Microsoft Azure, USA. This session focused on how to build inclusive tech ecosystems that support innovation while ensuring equity.
Session on Neurodiversity
After a short break, another important session was led by Ms. Ann Mathews, an ADHD Practitioner from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. Her session, titled "Neurodiversity and Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment," focused on how educational systems can be more inclusive for neurodivergent individuals. She discussed the importance of understanding different learning needs and creating environments that support all types of learners, especially those with conditions like ASD & ADHD.
Ideathon: Innovation for Inclusivity
Simultaneously, more paper presentations took place, continuing the exploration of digital equity through research and practical case studies. One of the main highlights of the second day was the Ideathon, which was divided into two segments: the Idea Presentation and the Prototype Presentation. Participants from different colleges and Marian College presented innovative ideas and prototypes that focused on digital technology to promote inclusivity.
Valedictory Ceremony
The conference concluded with a valedictory ceremony. Prof. Dr. Binu Thomas, Co-Principal Investigator of the Mozilla Responsible Computing Challenge at Marian College, delivered the welcome speech. The presidential address was given by Dr. Joby Cyriac, and the valedictory address was delivered by Rev. Fr. Dr. Shaiju K. S., Vice Principal of Marian College. The prizes for the best paper presentations and Ideathon projects were distributed by Rev. Fr. Ajo Pezhumkattil, Dr. Joby Cyriac, and Rev. Fr. Dr. Shaiju K. S..
Program Significance
The National Conference on Equitable Digital Access was a significant event that addressed one of the most important issues of the digital age—ensuring that technology, particularly AI, is inclusive and accessible to all people. With the rapid advancements in AI, there is a growing need to make sure that these technologies benefit everyone, regardless of their background, abilities, or location. This conference emphasized how technology can be used to promote digital inclusivity while also highlighting the ethical challenges that need to be addressed to ensure fairness.
Key Outcomes
- ● Promote equitable access to technology for persons with disabilities (PWD)
- ● Encourage ethical and responsible AI practices in the development of accessible solutions
- ● Provide a platform for sharing cutting-edge research and case studies in equitable digital access
Through the paper presentations and the Ideathon, students from various colleges all over India were given the opportunity to share their research and ideas on how AI can be leveraged to create more inclusive digital environments. These sessions encouraged critical thinking and innovation, as participants presented solutions to real-world problems related to digital equity. The panel discussions and keynote sessions also provided a platform for experts to share their insights on responsible AI practices and the importance of embedding inclusivity in tech ecosystems. The discussions helped participants understand that while AI has the potential to reduce digital inequalities, it must be developed and deployed in a way that considers the needs of all individuals.
Overall, the conference encouraged collaboration and knowledge-sharing among students, faculty, and experts. It reinforced the importance of creating a responsible and inclusive digital future where no one is left behind in the digital revolution.