Technology, Impact, and Global Equity

This episode features Anusha Dandapani, Chief of Data and AI at the UNICC AI Hub (United Nations International Computing Centre), exploring how the UN is building scalable, responsible AI across its global system. She shares insights on creating shared AI infrastructure, overcoming fragmented systems, and shifting from experimentation to institutional adoption. The conversation highlights “frugal AI” - focusing on social impact over cost alone - and reveals surprising cost drivers like governance, data preparation, and workforce upskilling. Anusha also discusses balancing innovation with trust, embedding responsible AI practices, and preparing organisations for emerging agentic systems, offering practical lessons for leaders aiming to build purposeful, efficient AI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices