Nigerian Professor Chidi Oguamanam has been appointed to UNESCO's World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology (COMEST) for a four-year term. The commission advises on ethical issues surrounding emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, climate change, and quantum computing.
UNESCO's Top Advisory Body on Science and Technology Ethics
Established in 1998, COMEST is an independent advisory body made up of experts from different countries and academic backgrounds. Its job is to examine the ethical questions that come with rapid advances in science and technology, including major issues around artificial intelligence, climate change, and quantum computing.
Expertise and Contributions Recognized
UNESCO has recognized Prof. Oguamanam's significant contributions to the ethics of science and technology and related disciplines. The organization wrote in an official invitation letter: "Recognising your significant contributions to the ethics of science and technology and related disciplines, it is my honour to invite you to become a member of UNESCO’s World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology for a period of four years, from 2026 to 2029."
Emerging Technologies and Global Perspectives
The COMEST Advisory Body is intentionally made up of experts from different regions to ensure global perspectives are represented when discussing emerging ethical challenges. According to UNESCO, the commission provides advice and recommendations to UNESCO, governments, policymakers, researchers, and civil society through detailed reports. Some of its past work has influenced important international frameworks, including the Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change, adopted in 2017, and the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, adopted in 2021.
Horizon Scanning and Future Reports
UNESCO says it is confident Prof. Oguamanam's expertise will strengthen the commission as it takes on emerging ethical challenges in science and technology, including artificial intelligence and other fast-evolving innovations. Members are expected to contribute to what UNESCO described as "horizon scanning", identifying future scientific and technological developments that could raise important ethical concerns before they become major global issues. Prof. Oguamanam will join global experts helping UNESCO shape future ethical standards and recommendations on science and technology.
Nigeria's Stronger Voice in International Conversations
For Nigeria, Prof. Oguamanam's appointment means the country will have a stronger voice in international conversations that influence how emerging technologies, including AI, are governed and used responsibly around the world. As technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, decisions made by bodies like COMEST are becoming increasingly important in shaping global policies that balance innovation with ethics and human rights.
Source: Pulse.ng
