#48 : Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Dr. Karaitiana Tairu on AI’s Role in the Pacific Islands

Our first guest of this season, Dr. Karaitiana Tairu, joins us for an insightful discussion on the intersection of AI and the Pacific Islands. Dr. Tairu discusses the intricate balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing innovation, highlighting the role of AI in creating sustainable solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Pacific Islands. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the convergence of tradition and technology About AI Asia Pacific Institute The AI Asia Pacific Institute (AIAPI) is a global not-for-profit committed to strengthening the Asia-Pacific economies by facilitating the responsible development and adoption of artificial intelligence. The AIAPI serves as an independent catalyst, uniting stakeholders to guide AI’s responsible development through interdisciplinary research, awareness raising, international collaboration, and policy advisory activities. About Dr Karaitiana Taiuru Dr Taiuru is a leading authority and a highly accomplished visionary Māori technology ethicist specialising in Māori rights with AI, Māori Data Sovereignty and Governance with emerging digital technologies and biological sciences. He brings extensive expertise in mātauranga, tikanga Māori, te Tiriti and advocacy for digital Māori rights and a profound understanding of the intersection between Māori knowledge and emerging technologies. A professional director with membership with Institute of Directors, with roles including membership and Kahui Māori advisor of the New Zealand AI Forum, member and tangata whenua governor of the AI Researchers Association, invited member of the Expert panel on AI and healthcare for the Office of the Prime Minister’s Chief Scientific Advisor, a legislated expert member of the Intellectual Property Office (IPONZ) Trade Marks Advisory Committee and Ministry of Health Tikanga Expert on Assisted Reproduction, as well as many other governance appointments.