Welcome to the 14th Annual IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference (GHTC) in Philadelphia. GHTC brings together researchers and practitioners to share practical technology-enabled solutions that address the needs of underserved populations worldwide.
This quasi-experimental study evaluates the impact of a three-month digital Integrated Amrita Meditation (IAM)(R) technique intervention program on the perceived stress levels of incarcerated populations. The availability of adequate mental healthcare in prison settings tends to be extremely limited, leading to a number of adverse effects on prisoners pre- and post-release and putting an already vulnerable segment of society at increased risk. In addition to reducing stress levels and positively affecting general mental well-being, offering IAM (R) sessions as a digital programme has been shown to reach greater population numbers. Such programmes could also increase the long-term accessibility and adherence to mental health promotion programmes post-release, which has been correlated with decreased rates of recidivism and a more sustained constructive engagement in society.
This paper explores the utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions to address safety training concerns among informal workers in Colombia. The informal sector, particularly prevalent in industries like mining, presents unique challenges regarding occupational health and safety. By leveraging next-generation ICT tools, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mobile applications, this study aims to enhance safety training effectiveness and accessibility for informal workers in Colombia. Drawing upon existing literature and case studies, the paper evaluates the potential of ICT solutions to bridge gaps in traditional safety training methods, offering tailored, interactive, and immersive experiences. Additionally, it discusses the integration of culturally sensitive content and user-friendly interfaces to ensure maximum engagement and knowledge retention. Through a comprehensive analysis of current practices and emerging technologies, this paper underscores the transformative impact of ICT solutions in fostering a safer work environment for informal workers in Colombia.
Computerized Vocational Educational Training (CVET) holds promise for empowering village women in-volved in seaweed cultivation in Tamil Nadu by improving access to learning resources and enhancing digital literacy. The first study explores the challenges faced by women in sea-weed farming, focusing on qualitative data gathered through focus group discussions with 20 women from three different villages. Three main categories of challenges emerged: health, financial, and environmental issues, along with potential solutions. The second study investigates aspiring factors that promote engagement in seaweed cultivation. Moreover, analysis revealed the importance of cultural nuances that impact women's success. Recommendations for addressing these challenges and considerations for future research are discussed for incorporation into CVET courses. By aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), this approach not only fosters educational and gender equity but also promotes sustainable environmental practices in coastal communities.
Poor quality newborn care, mostly during the period around delivery, accounts for nearly 1 million neonatal deaths each year globally. Many of these deaths occur in low and low-middle income countries where healthcare professionals may lack the skills to provide newborn resuscitation and care. This study focused on the development of mobile virtual reality simulations to support continuing education for health professionals in low resource settings on essential newborn care. As part of the prototyping process, the study team developed a dedicated usability test application for experimenting with the mechanics and user interface elements required to perform a variety of actions required to develop virtual simulations on essential newborn care (vENC). This study leveraged iterative testing and user feedback to design intuitive and engaging mobile virtual simulations for healthcare users in a low-middle income country setting in sub-Saharan Africa. This paper shares the lessons learned on mobile virtual reality design for users in low resource settings.
