Education – the catalyst for innovation by Luís Silva, President of PTH

Technology is undoubtedly a transformative tool, but the impact it generates is directly linked to how it is used. When guided by ethical and inclusive practices, for example, it can become an engine of change that promotes a fairer and more diverse world. In a global scenario where technological innovation is advancing at an unprecedented pace, these innovations can also be levers in education, leading to inclusion. The link between innovation and inclusion is not only possible, but desirable. In fact, both can be mutually reinforcing – creating solutions that respond to everyone’s needs and contributing to a positive impact on society.

In education, technology has the ability to facilitate by democratizing access to knowledge. By breaking down geographical, social and even cultural barriers, it can take education to another scale. Distance learning, teaching platforms, educational applications and access to digital resources are a way of enabling students in more remote areas to access knowledge that was previously only available in physical structures. In addition, these innovations are also a driving force for the inclusion of marginalized communities, spreading new knowledge and ways of thinking, while contributing to digital literacy. What’s more, a global interconnection is created, whether through forums, videoconferences, webinars and masterclasses, where knowledge reaches from and to all corners of the world.

In the area of technology itself, which I work closely with, it is important to promote what we call ‘lifelong learning’. Since technology is constantly evolving, professionals and students in the field have to remain competitive in the job market, which calls not only for constant updating in teaching methods, but also in learning methods. However, whatever stage of education we are at, technology has ways of adapting, taking education with it on this path.

I talk about education because I strongly believe that this is the key to a more equal future, to reducing inequalities and democratizing opportunities. It is through training and knowledge that we can evolve as a society and form the leaders of tomorrow. Today, technology is able to give stage to leaders we didn’t know existed. Today, combining innovation with education has unlocked minds and paths.

There are, however, challenges to be overcome, since technology can accentuate inequalities when its access is not universal, contributing to the “digital divide”, which is more evident in regions without an adequate technological infrastructure. To mitigate these challenges while simultaneously globalizing training and knowledge, it is essential to have the articulated support of governments, NGOs and the private sector to guarantee adequate infrastructure, as well as teacher training and inclusive policies that maximize their impact. This means that technology can and must be scaled up responsibly to continue to reduce educational and social disparities and promote a more equitable society.

by Luís Silva, President of Porto Tech Hub