IGF 2024 Launch / Award Event #33 Lenovo AI Bridges Gap for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

    Lenovo
    Lenovo

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    SDGs

    10. Reduced Inequalities


    Targets: Our proposal directly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing inequalities, specifically addressing the challenges faced by the deaf and hard of hearing community. By introducing an AI-powered sign language translation solution, Lenovo aims to dismantle communication barriers that often isolate this demographic, thereby enhancing their ability to engage fully in society.

    The technology facilitates equitable access to information and services which are often taken for granted by the hearing population. By enabling real-time translation of Libras, the Brazilian sign language, into spoken and written Portuguese—and potentially other languages—the solution helps integrate the deaf and hard of hearing into everyday activities, ranging from simple retail transactions to critical medical consultations, without the need for human interpreters. This increases their autonomy and participation in both economic and social systems.

    Moreover, by showcasing this technology at international forums like the IGF, Lenovo seeks to encourage global stakeholders to consider similar innovations in their respective domains, fostering an inclusive environment where technology serves as a tool to bridge gaps rather than widen them. Our initiative exemplifies how targeted technological solutions can contribute to achieving SDG targets by empowering marginalized communities, ensuring they have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from societal advancements.

    Format

    Theater

    I. Opening Remarks
    -Introduction by a high-ranking official or respected figure in the technology or accessibility community.
    -Brief overview of Lenovo's commitment to inclusivity and the importance of this new technology.

    II. Keynote Presentation
    - Detailed presentation by the project lead or R&D director, outlining the development process, technical details, and the potential impact of the AI solution.
    - Demonstrations of the technology in action, possibly including live translations to showcase real-time effectiveness.

    III Closing Remarks
    - Summary of the key points discussed and the envisioned path forward.
    - Call to action for attendees to consider how such technological advancements could be implemented in their own areas to promote accessibility and inclusivity.

    Duration (minutes)
    60
    Description

    This proposal outlines a session dedicated to showcasing Lenovo's innovative AI-powered sign language translation solution, designed to empower the deaf and hard of hearing community in Brazil by interpreting Libras, the official Brazilian sign language, in real-time. At the core of this technology are advanced computer vision and AI algorithms that enable seamless communication across language barriers.

    The session will highlight the technology's development, from initial concept to its implementation. Further discussions will focus on the R&D journey, the challenges faced in capturing and processing sign language data, and the collaborative efforts with Brazilian innovation centers to refine the AI algorithms. The session aims to engage stakeholders from various sectors by demonstrating the solution's potential applications in public services and private enterprises, such as retail and healthcare, where sign language interpreters are scarce.

    This session at the IGF will not only highlight Lenovo's commitment to delivering smarter technology for all but also serve as a platform to explore the broader implications of such technology in fostering an inclusive society. We aim to inspire dialogue on leveraging technology to address accessibility issues globally, emphasizing the need for continued innovation and collaboration in this field.

    More information: https://news.lenovo.com/ai-powered-sign-language-translation-solution-h…

    Implementing a virtual event platform that offers features like live polling, Q&A sessions, and real-time sign language interpretation to enhance engagement and ensure that online participants can interact as effectively as those onsite.