Strengthening Communities Through Digital Literacy
September 20-21, 2023 | Almaty, Kazakhstan
The upcoming Digital Communication Network Global Forum is set to boost digital literacy in Central Asia. It coincides with the launch of DCN Global's regional hub, an innovative platform for digital professionals committed to social development. The event promises a wide range of sessions that will equip participants with the digital knowledge and advocacy skills needed in the modern landscape.
The forum will highlight successful regional initiatives that underscore a unified goal to bolster IT infrastructure, broaden internet accessibility, and elevate digital literacy - a vision congruent with the forum's mission and organizations.
DAY 1
The first day's agenda features a range of interactive workshops, presentations, and panel discussions on a diverse set of topics. Participants will have the opportunity to delve into areas such as e-governance, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship, ultimately leading to a comprehensive exploration of AI’s potential and pitfalls in sectors like healthcare, finance, education, and security.
Working language: English

Agenda | September 20, 2023
Registration and coffee
- Nicholas Novak, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Consulate General, Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Nikos Panagiotou, President, DCN Global, Greece
Annie Aguiar, Audience Engagement Producer, Poynter, U.S.
Alyona Koshkina, Media Literacy Program Manager, MediaNet International Centre for Journalism, Kazakhstan
Akilnathan X. Logeswaran, Online communities expert (Fmr. Facebook), Forbes 30 under 30, Germany
Paolo Sorbello, English Editor, Vlast.kz, Kazakhstan
Lunch Break
Dimitris Dimitriadis, Futurist, Advisor Special Secretariat for Foresight, Presidency of the Government of Hellenic Republic, Greece
Khosiyatkhon Komilova, Gender, Equality, and Social Inclusion Expert, Tajikistan
Alisher Siddique, Director of RFE/RL Uzbek Service, Prague
Coffee break
Speakers
- Aigerim Pazylbekova, Digital Literacy Team Leader, Connect-Ed, Kazakhstan
- Talant Sultanov, Co-Founder and Board Member, Internet Society-Kyrgyz Chapter, Kyrgyzstan
- Shukhrat Nazarkhudoev, Co-Founder and CEO of KhorogTECH Academy, Tajikistan
Wrap up of Day 1
DAY 2
The second day is dedicated to the conceptualization of DCN's Central Asian hub. Employing an engaging brainstorming and planning approach, the focus will be on identifying the unique needs and realities of each participating country. This process is designed to enable the DCN Global team and community members to collaboratively develop solutions, culminating in a roadmap for future initiatives.

Day 2 | September 21, 2023
Introduction and Opening Remarks
Briefing on the Goals of the Brainstorming Session and the Importance of Digital Education
Facilitated by DCN Global team members: Identifying Gaps and Issues and Brainstorming Solutions for the Digital Gaps and Challenges
Presentation of Group Activity (Gaps and Challenges)
Open Discussion
Lunch
Introduction to the Continuation of the Group Activity
Developing a Roadmap for Future Initiatives (Regional Activity plan development)
Activity Plan and Q&A
Closing Remarks
Speakers















Steering through this digitally focused forum, we are hopeful that this two-day voyage of professional growth, collaboration, and strategic planning will stimulate substantial social advancement and digital metamorphosis across Central Asia, facilitating its integration into the global journey DCN is undertaking.