Our Research Grant Program supports global initiatives focused on enhancing our understanding of the Internet and its value to everyone. The “Future of the Internet” interview series showcases innovative ideas contributing to a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable digital future. Through these conversations, we share stories from our research grant partners who are addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the digital landscape.
Here, we spotlight four extraordinary projects emphasizing inclusivity, privacy, linguistic diversity, and bridging the gender digital divide. Stay tuned—more thought-provoking interviews are to come in 2025!
Francis Saa-Dittoh: Leveraging AI for Language Inclusivity
Francis Saa-Dittoh’s research tackles one of the Internet’s most significant challenges: inclusivity. Based in Ghana at the University for Development Studies, Francis uses advanced AI methods such as machine learning and natural language processing to make Internet content accessible to non-literate, low-resource communities in the Global South. By developing low-cost hardware like block computers and leveraging FM radio technology, his team transmits voice-based information in local languages, allowing even those with basic devices to access crucial knowledge.
Francis’s project, aptly named Tibaldi (meaning “our language”), reflects a deep commitment to preserving indigenous languages and empowering rural communities. This research demonstrates that technology can bridge digital divides while respecting cultural heritage by prioritizing their needs and amplifying their voices.
Sonia Jorge: Addressing the Gender Digital Divide
Sonia Jorge, Executive Director of the Global Digital Inclusion Partnership (GDIP), explores women’s barriers to accessing meaningful Internet connectivity. Her research, Connected Resilience: Gendered Experiences of Meaningful Connectivity through a Global Pandemic sheds light on how economic, social, and cultural factors perpetuate the gender digital divide.
Sonia’s work emphasizes the need for equitable access to affordable, high-speed Internet and digital tools. She advocates for creating environments where women can fully participate in digital spaces, thus unlocking their potential as innovators and contributors to the digital economy. Her findings urge policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize inclusive solutions that ensure no one is left behind in our digital future.
Sarah Gran: Redefining Privacy with Divvi Up
The Internet Security Research Group (ISRG) is trying to change how apps and websites collect data online. It’s project, Divvi Up, is a privacy-respecting telemetry service that uses advanced cryptography to gather aggregate user metrics without compromising individual privacy. By setting a new standard for ethical data practices, it’s work helps create a more secure and trustworthy Internet ecosystem.
Through partnerships with companies, funders, and human rights organizations, Divvi Up exemplifies how collaboration can drive change. In this interview, Sarah Gran highlights the importance of balancing the need for insights with respecting user privacy—a challenge critical to the Internet’s future.
Bonnita Nyamwire: Preserving Linguistic Diversity Online
Bonnita Nyamwire, Co-Director of Research at Pollicy, delves into the dominance of English on the Internet and its impact on non-English-speaking users. Her study with the Digital Futures Lab reveals how the lack of support for non-dominant languages creates barriers for millions of people, especially in the gig economy, media, and academia.
Bonnita calls for increased investment in natural language processing (NLP) tools to support linguistic diversity. She envisions an Internet that values and preserves native languages, empowering users worldwide to communicate and participate fully in digital spaces.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we share these powerful stories, we remain committed to fostering dialogue and innovation through The Future of the Internet series. Join us in 2025 for more inspiring interviews with researchers whose work is shaping a better Internet for everyone.
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