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The government of Western Australia (WA) is undergoing significant changes at the moment. Earlier this year, the WA government announced the first round of Machinery of Government changes in the public sector, as outlined in the Government’s election commitments creating a number of new amalgamated departments.
OpenGov had the opportunity to speak to Mr. Marc Dimmick, Director of Information Management (Interim) at the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to find out the impact of these changes, the challenges and the expected long-term benefits. Mr. Dimmick was the Chief Information Officer at the Department of Sport and Recreation prior to the amalgamation.
The Department of Sport and Recreation was merged with the Department of Local Government and Communities, the Department of Culture and the Arts and the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor to create the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The ‘Communities’ part of the Department of Local Government and Communities is extracting itself from Local Government and going to another department. Mr. Dimmick said that it is a complicated process. Once amalgamation is completed, corporate services will be shared across all the different streams. But the different workstreams will continue to be maintained.
We discussed the impact of the amalgamation, as well as the whole of government initiative, being run by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (GCIO), called GovNext-ICT, which aims to move the government from a capital intensive, infrastructure-centric ICT operating model to an as-a-service, consumption-based operating model.
Whole-of-government changes
GovNext-ICT involves co-locating the government’s data centres and server rooms; migrating to cloud services; and creating a data and communications network that connects government workers across WA.
In January this year, the government formalised the appointment of three companies to supply ICT infrastructure as a service to WA Government agencies.
Mr. Dimmick said, “The idea is that they would set up 3 data centres that would form a hub, which would then connect to the cloud and then each department moves its infrastructure into those data centres, at a reduced rate to what they are currently paying. And also to utilise the connectivity and communications through scalability. So we’re going in as a whole government rather than separate departments.”
Mr. Dimmick said that during the first part of this year they analysed their current usage and requirements and potential spending for the next 3 years. Then requests were sent out to each of the suppliers to then provide a quote of what they could provide those same services for. Based on the responses, savings of around 30 to 40 per cent are expected over 3 years on the initially projected spending estimates for the department.
As the other departments come onboard, costs are expected to decline further because of scale. So, the total potential savings could be considerably higher.
In addition, as more agencies come onboard, all internal communications, from phone calls to video conferencing will be across the same network, eliminating additional costs for intra-government communication.
It is possible for the government agencies and departments to pick different vendors for the supply of different aspects. For instance, one might give a better price on, whereas the other might give a better price on communications.
Interoperability is ensured between the three suppliers. “The whole thing has been designed so that we can pick and buy from all three and that we can move from one to the other without any hindrance or obstruction,” Mr. Dimmick explained.
The Office of the GCIO is also coming out with whole-of-government ICT policies to provide a foundation for collaboration between public sector agencies. Till date, policies have been released for areas like open data, cybersecurity, digital services, cloud and interoperability.
Rather than every department reinventing the wheel every time, they can pick up the common policy and adjust it for the department.
Within the new department
When asked about the merger-related challenges, Mr. Dimmick replied, “In bringing the departments together, we need to align our systems and processes. From a corporate services perspective, that’s looking at HR, finance and information management.”
“We’ve 3 different HR systems currently being used and we’re looking to pick up each of the departments at a time and moving them into one system. That’s projected to take within 6 to 12 months.” The challenge here is to transform the data to fit the model of the new system.
All the different departments which were amalgamated were on the same system for finance. So, the migration and merging of silos is expected to be easier. Currently, the Chief Financial Officer is working to produce a whole of department chart of accounts from the different charts of accounts in the different departments.
Within Mr. Dimmick’s specific area of information management, the challenge is dealing with multiple versions of the record management system.
Mr. Dimmick said, “The first part we need to define is an information architecture across the department. It’s about understanding what content we actually obtain, how we need to manage it, the rules of disposal and retention that need to be applied and the templates that we actually use.”
All these rules are defined by the State Records Office of Western Australia. Some information, such as financial information may have to be kept for 7 years. Some information may have to be kept for 25 years and some indefinitely. So, the information has to be identified to then apply the relevant rules. At the moment, there are hundreds of rules that have to be applied to hundred types of information.
Earlier systems just took the old records management systems of filing cabinets and drawers and replicated that into a computer. The new system is designed to take away the burden of record management from end-users.
The latest version of the system allows the rules to be pre-defined within the MS Word template. The system can then apply the rules based on the template being used.
“The Western Australian state government is about to sign off on classification of information. So, we now need to apply classifications to our documents. Using the template model, I can define these templates, pre-define the classifications to those documents. When a person opens up one of those templates to create a document, it’s got the word draft plastered against it. It’s got the relevant classification. It’s got the rules applied to it and it’s got the button that says finish,” Mr. Dimmick elaborated.
When the ‘final’ button is clicked, the system picks up the document and applies the relevant rules to that document. In the past, the computer had to be told what to do, when to do, how to do. Users had to login to the program, fill in all the details, which was time-consuming and interfered with business.
“In the new system we will be able to say here is your bucket to work in, there are the folders, put the right document in the right folder and once you have done that, the system will take care of it for you. So, we are trying to eliminate the practice of records management from end-users and let them get on with their work,” Mr. Dimmick added.
This is expected to be an 18-24 month exercise to get to the base level and then it would be a continuous process.
Once the information is stored correctly, and the data identified, then data analytics can be explored. Here, Mr. Dimmick said it is important to teach the business ‘how to fish’, as in how to prepare and analyse the data, to realise the value of the information that they hold.
“At the moment, we bait the hook, we find the fish, we slice it, we dish it up and half the time, we eat it,” he said. So, business has to be provided with intuitive, easy to understand tools
This process is not just about technology, but also about a cultural shift. It is about a shift in the understanding of information, and in the management and reporting of information. It is about discarding manual bad practices and digitising of processes.
Often, when people are shown a new system, they try to stick to their old practices to achieve the same outcome. In effect, they are tying the shoelaces of the new system, not letting it work as it is designed to.
So, the first thing to do is to clarify the desired outcome (the previous outcome might not have been what exactly was wanted but was judged good enough at the time). The next step would be to look at how the new system can help achieve that outcome, starting from the end-point.
“The practices and processes of the new system will potentially be totally different from what was done in the past. But unless you go in with open eyes and a willingness to just relook at everything, all you are doing is creating complexity. So, the idea is to agree to the outcome and then find the easiest way to achieve the outcome using new tools, not replicating the practices of the past,” Mr. Dimmick conc
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Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called upon the youth to take the lead in propelling Vietnam’s digital transformation, emphasising their crucial role in shaping the nation’s future amidst the burgeoning digital economy. The Prime Minister made these remarks during a dialogue held in Hanoi on March 26, where he engaged with 300 outstanding young individuals from various regions of the country.
With the digital economy projected to contribute 30% to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, PM Chinh underscored the urgency for Vietnam to embrace digitalisation as an indispensable global trend. He highlighted digital transformation as a cornerstone alongside the green economy, circular economy, sharing economy, and intellectual economy, essential for realising the nation’s development objectives of transitioning into a modern, upper-middle-income country by 2030 and achieving developed, high-income status by 2045.
In his address, PM Chinh urged the youth to champion digitalisation by raising public awareness, advocating for policy reforms, driving administrative modernisation through digital technologies, and advancing research and development efforts in the digital domain. Emphasising their role as pioneers, he expressed confidence in the youth’s ability to contribute, innovate, integrate into society, and pursue personal growth.
Moreover, PM Chinh called upon the youth to collaborate with the government in establishing a digital government, digital economy, digital society, and nurturing digital citisenship. This collaborative approach is deemed essential for harnessing the full potential of digital technologies to address societal challenges and drive inclusive growth.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s call, the youth presented recommendations to the government, emphasising the need to refine the legal framework governing digital platforms and establish effective communication channels to engage citisens in the digital transformation process. They stressed the importance of inclusivity and transparency in policymaking to ensure the successful implementation of digital initiatives.
During the dialogue, PM Chinh addressed queries from the youth regarding data protection, cybersecurity measures, integration of public services with the national population database, and strategies to preserve cultural identity in the digital age. Acknowledging these concerns, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding data privacy, enhancing cybersecurity, and promoting cultural heritage preservation in the digital era.
Furthermore, PM Chinh instructed relevant ministries, authorities, and localities to expedite the implementation of the National Digital Transformation Programme, refine existing mechanisms and policies, and create an enabling environment for youth-led initiatives. This concerted effort aims to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy among the younger generation, thereby ensuring their active participation in shaping Vietnam’s digital future.
The dialogue served as a platform for meaningful exchanges between the government and the youth, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in driving Vietnam’s digital transformation agenda. With the youth at the forefront, Vietnam is poised to harness the opportunities offered by digital technologies to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for all.
As reported by openGov Asia, Vietnam is undergoing a digital revolution, characterised by concerted endeavours to advance the country’s digital transformation. With aspirations to attain high-income status by 2045, Vietnam’s digital technology sector focuses on mastering technology, fostering innovation, and developing domestic manufacturing capacities.
In this context, inclusivity and collaboration are essential, serving as key drivers to unleash the transformative power of technology and foster economic expansion, ensuring broad societal participation and contribution to the nation’s advancement.
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Bushfires represent one of the most formidable challenges faced by firefighters worldwide. With their unpredictable behaviour and rapid spread, combating these blazes demands innovative solutions to ensure the safety of both responders and communities at risk. In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers are harnessing the power of robotics to revolutionise bushfire response, paving the way for more effective firefighting strategies and enhanced situational awareness.
At the heart of this endeavour lies the Silvanus Project, an ambitious international collaboration aimed at developing ground robots capable of navigating fire fronts and gathering crucial data in real-time. Led by researchers from Data61’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, this project represents a pioneering effort to address the inherent dangers associated with traditional firefighting methods.
Bushfires, fueled by factors such as vegetation density and weather conditions, can escalate rapidly, outpacing conventional firefighting techniques. To stay ahead of the inferno, firefighters require accurate information about fire location, direction of spread, and potential hazards. However, obtaining such data often entails placing personnel in hazardous environments, risking their safety in the process.
Drones have emerged as a promising tool for aerial reconnaissance, offering valuable insights into fire behaviour from above. However, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as smoke interference, high winds, and restricted flight times. Recognising these limitations, researchers turned their focus to ground-based solutions, envisioning robots capable of operating in the most challenging of conditions.
The ground robots developed as part of the Silvanus Project are equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, allowing them to traverse rugged terrain and navigate through smoke and debris. Some robots are designed to move on legs, mimicking the mobility of insects, while others utilise tracks for increased stability and manoeuvrability. These robots venture into the heart of the fire, gathering critical data such as fire intensity, fuel availability, and environmental conditions.
During a demonstration conducted for fire service representatives and researchers, the capabilities of these ground robots were showcased, highlighting their potential to transform firefighting operations. With the ability to transmit data in real-time to a cloud-based platform, these robots provide firefighters with unprecedented situational awareness, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive firefighting strategies.
Senior experimental scientist Tom Lowe emphasises the significance of these ground robots in enhancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness. By deploying robots into areas deemed too hazardous for human intervention, firefighters can access vital information without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, the integration of remote sensing technologies allows robots to assess vegetation density and predict fuel availability, further aiding in fire suppression efforts.
While the technology is still in the developmental stage, researchers are optimistic about its potential impact on future firefighting practices. Navinda Kottege, Cyber-Physical Systems Research Director, underscores the life-saving potential of ground robots, particularly in high-risk firefighting scenarios where human intervention may be impractical or unsafe.
The Silvanus Project represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from across Europe, Australia, Indonesia, and Brazil, united in their mission to develop innovative solutions for forest management and fire prevention. By harnessing the power of robotics and cutting-edge technologies, this initiative aims to bolster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and protecting communities from the devastating impact of bushfires.
As ground robots continue to evolve and mature, fueled by ongoing research and international collaboration, the vision of leveraging technology to mitigate the impact of bushfires grows ever closer to reality. With each technological advancement, firefighters gain new tools and capabilities to confront one of nature’s most formidable adversaries, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for all.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of technological innovation, promising transformative solutions to complex challenges across various domains. Recognising its potential to revolutionise industries and improve societal well-being, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has inaugurated the NUS AI Institute (NAII). Led by Professor Mohan Kankanhalli, NAII aims to accelerate AI research and its practical applications, fostering collaboration, innovation, and societal impact.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, AI has emerged as a powerful tool with the capacity to reshape diverse sectors, ranging from healthcare to finance, education, logistics, and beyond. The establishment of NAII underscores NUS’s commitment to harnessing AI for the greater good, addressing critical issues facing Singapore and the global community.
At the core of NAII’s mission is the advancement of fundamental AI research, aimed at pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities and exploring novel applications across various domains. Through foundational research initiatives, scientists at NAII will tackle complex AI problems, spanning hardware and software systems, AI theory, responsible AI, reasoning AI, and resource-efficient AI. By delving into these areas, the institute seeks to develop cutting-edge AI technologies that address real-world challenges and drive innovation.
Moreover, NAII will prioritise research into the ethical and societal implications of AI, aiming to develop robust governance frameworks that ensure responsible AI development and deployment. This includes examining issues related to transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making in AI systems. By fostering dialogue and research on AI ethics and governance, NAII aims to guide the responsible use of AI technology and mitigate potential risks.
In addition to foundational research, NAII will spearhead applied research initiatives, focusing on developing AI-driven solutions for specific application domains. Collaborating with experts from diverse fields, including healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, finance, urban sustainability, and education, the institute will tackle pressing challenges and explore opportunities for AI-driven innovation. From optimising supply chains to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing urban infrastructure, NAII’s applied research efforts aim to deliver tangible benefits to society.
Furthermore, NAII will serve as a hub for AI talent development, providing comprehensive education and training programs for students, professionals, and policymakers. By offering hands-on learning experiences and internships, the institute seeks to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation in AI.
To support its research and educational endeavours, NUS has allocated significant resources to NAII, including external research grants and institutional funding. Moreover, the institute will collaborate closely with government agencies and industry partners to amplify its impact and drive innovation. Strategic partnerships with leading companies such as IBM and Google Cloud will enable NAII to leverage industry expertise and resources, accelerating the translation of research outcomes into real-world applications.
In alignment with Singapore’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise (RIE) strategy, NAII aims to contribute to the nation’s AI ecosystem by fostering collaboration, innovation, and talent development. By positioning NUS as a global leader in AI research and application, the institute seeks to drive positive societal change and economic growth.
The establishment of NAII represents a significant milestone in NUS’s journey towards harnessing the power of AI for societal benefit. Through cutting-edge research, education, and collaboration, the institute aims to unlock the full potential of AI and pave the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive future. With its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence, NAII is poised to make a lasting impact on Singapore and the global AI landscape.
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The Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) has reached a significant milestone with its artificial intelligence (AI) platform, VNPT eKYC, logging over 1 billion user authentication requests. This accomplishment solidifies VNPT’s position as a pioneer in electronic identification and verification solutions within Vietnam.
Since its inception, VNPT eKYC has been at the forefront of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) services for over five years, serving a diverse range of clients including banks, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and e-commerce entities. With over 100 organisations utilising its services, VNPT eKYC has facilitated electronic identification for more than 40 million individuals across the country.
On average, the VNPT eKYC system processes an impressive 600,000 requests daily, with peak days witnessing over a million requests being handled seamlessly. This demonstrates the platform’s robustness and reliability in managing high volumes of authentication transactions efficiently.
The significance of VNPT eKYC extends beyond its technological capabilities, particularly in the context of evolving regulatory requirements. The State Bank of Vietnam’s decision mandating biometric authentication for transactions exceeding 10 million VND (approximately 416 USD) and other significant transactions from July 1, 2024, underscores the critical role of advanced authentication solutions like VNPT eKYC in ensuring compliance and security in financial transactions.
Moreover, the platform’s success highlights the increasing importance of domestically developed solutions in the banking and financial sector. Domestic solutions such as VNPT eKYC offer several advantages, including rapid implementation, cost-effectiveness, adherence to global technology standards, scalability, and high readiness to meet evolving regulatory requirements.
Central to the effectiveness of VNPT eKYC is its advanced AI models, which enable the verification of facial biometric data with an impressive accuracy rate of up to 99.99%. This high level of accuracy not only enhances the security of authentication processes but also contributes to building trust and confidence among users and regulatory authorities.
As Vietnam’s digital economy continues to grow and evolve, the role of advanced authentication and verification solutions like VNPT eKYC becomes increasingly indispensable. Beyond facilitating seamless and secure electronic transactions, these solutions contribute to enhancing the overall digital infrastructure and ecosystem of the country, paving the way for further innovation and economic growth.
Looking ahead, VNPT remains committed to advancing its AI platform and expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its clients and the regulatory landscape. With a strong focus on innovation, reliability, and security, VNPT eKYC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electronic identification and verification in Vietnam’s dynamic digital economy.
VNPT’s achievement of logging over 1 billion authentication requests with its AI platform, VNPT eKYC, marks a significant milestone in Vietnam’s journey towards digital transformation.
Amid a swiftly changing global landscape, Vietnam emerges as a frontrunner in a digital revolution, strategically positioned to harness technology’s transformative power for economic progress and societal development.
It is embracing its digital transformation journey, highlighting collaborative efforts to drive the nation’s digital transformation. The nation’s digital technology industry aims to propel Vietnam towards high-income status by 2045 through technology mastery, innovation, and indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
Moreover, the nation is working to harmonise its regulations, streamline laws, and promote consistency in its legal framework to foster a more favourable and appealing cyber environment.
As the country continues to embrace technology-driven solutions to address emerging challenges, VNPT eKYC stands as a testament to the potential of domestic innovation in driving progress and excellence in the digital era.
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In a significant scientific breakthrough in a space sector, Dr Sarah Kessans has developed hardware designed to operate autonomously in orbit, transforming the study of protein crystallisation in microgravity. This technology provides scientists on Earth with unprecedented insights into protein behaviour, with far-reaching implications for developing more effective medicines and vaccines, among other applications.
Minister for Space Dr Megan Collins lauds Dr Kessans’ research as an inspiring example of how space technology can drive innovation on Earth. This achievement follows the recent successful launch of MethaneSAT, a satellite designed to track and monitor global emissions from space, highlighting the significant potential of space technology in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges while bolstering our globally competitive space sector.
The MethaneSAT satellite will be equipped with a highly sensitive spectrometre that can detect concentrations as low as two parts per billion, and it will have high-spatial resolution coupled with a broad, 200-kilometre view path, allowing it to quantify even small emission sources over large areas.
Dr Kessans’ research culminated in successfully launching her hardware on a rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre at Cape Canaveral, USA. This mission also included protein experiments from leading New Zealand universities, including Canterbury, Otago, Victoria, and Waikato, showcasing the collaborative efforts of the country’s academic institutions in advancing space science and technology.
The launch of Dr Kessans’ project results from a strategic agreement between the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and the US commercial space company Axiom Space. This partnership aims to facilitate New Zealand researchers’ advancement in space science and technology, fostering innovation and driving collaboration between academia, government, and private enterprise.
Dr Kessans’ project has also received government funding for further development through the MBIE-administered Endeavour Fund, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation in the space sector. This collaborative effort between academia, government, and private enterprise is a testament to New Zealand’s growing presence in the global space economy, positioning the country as a key player in space research and technology development.
Previously, New Zealand had collaborated with several countries, including Australia, to advance space research, as reported by OpenGov. The collaboration between SmartSat and the New Zealand Space Agency (NZSA) is an important development. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two entities aims to accelerate the growth and technological advancement of the Australian and New Zealand space industries, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of space exploration and innovation in the Australasian region.
This partnership is underpinned by a shared commitment to fostering innovation, driving research and development (R&D), and nurturing a skilled workforce capable of propelling technological breakthroughs in the space sector. The MoU, ceremoniously signed at the NZSA headquarters in Wellington, signifies a strategic alignment between SmartSat and NZSA to leverage their combined resources and expertise.
At the core of this collaboration, it is designated to support joint research initiatives in three key technological domains: Earth Observation, Space Situational Awareness, and Optical Communications. These areas represent the forefront of space exploration, offering immense potential to revolutionise humanity’s perception and interaction with the cosmos.
Minister Judith Collins, New Zealand’s Minister for Space, praised the new agreement as a testament to the enduring collaboration between Australia and New Zealand in space exploration. In a statement on her official website, she reiterated her commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, recognising the transformative potential of space technology in addressing global challenges.
Minister Collins reaffirmed the government’s dedication to developing the country’s space sector, promoting innovation, and strengthening partnerships with the New Zealand research community, international space agencies, and commercial collaborators. These collaborative approaches underscore New Zealand’s commitment to advancing space science and technology to benefit society and the economy, paving the way for future breakthroughs in the field.
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In a significant stride towards bolstering research efforts in offshore wind power technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory have inked a collaborative agreement to establish the PolyU-Yangjiang Laboratory Joint Research Centre for Offshore Wind Power (JRC).
The joint initiative, officially announced through a signing ceremony held at PolyU’s campus, marks a pivotal moment in the burgeoning partnership between the two entities. With the JRC set to be jointly operated and managed by the PolyU Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) and the Laboratory, the collaboration signifies a concerted effort to deepen research collaboration and foster innovation in offshore wind power technology.
Under the ambit of this new partnership, researchers from PolyU and Yangjiang will synergise their expertise, resources, and laboratory facilities to undertake pioneering research projects. These projects will focus on developing novel technologies and materials tailored for offshore wind power applications, with a paramount aim to translate research outcomes into tangible solutions for industry implementation.
The signing ceremony, attended by a delegation from Yangjiang in Guangdong province alongside PolyU representatives, saw the presence of Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Mr. Liu Dewei, Vice Mayor of Yangjiang Municipal People’s Government. Their attendance underscored the significance of this collaborative endeavour in driving forward advancements in renewable energy technology.
In his welcoming address, Prof. Christopher Chao highlighted the pivotal role of wind power in the global transition towards carbon neutrality. He emphasised that the collaboration between PolyU and the Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory not only serves to advance offshore wind power expertise but also fosters a robust platform for mutual engagement in research, talent development, and knowledge exchange.
Prof. Chao expressed optimism that the JRC would harness the collective research capabilities of both organisations to tackle pressing scientific challenges and overcome technical barriers in the energy sector, ultimately contributing to the establishment of a world-class research and innovation hub for wind power and clean energy.
The partnership between PolyU and the Laboratory holds particular significance for Hong Kong’s energy landscape. With the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department of the HKSAR Government estimating that wind power could potentially satisfy a significant portion of the city’s electricity demand, the collaboration is poised to address critical engineering challenges in the construction of offshore wind farms. By facilitating interdisciplinary research and engineering solutions, the collaboration aims to benefit not only Hong Kong but also the wider region and beyond.
The Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory, comprising leading experts from esteemed mainland universities, is dedicated to advancing fundamental science and technology in the offshore wind power sector. Leveraging the collective expertise of institutions such as Zhejiang University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, among others, the Laboratory is at the forefront of research in this domain.
Established in 2021, PolyU’s Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) has been actively engaged in interdisciplinary research undertakings, with offshore wind power emerging as a focal area of interest. A delegation from RILS visited wind energy-related facilities in Yangjiang in November 2023, laying the groundwork for potential collaboration opportunities with the Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory.
As the PolyU-Yangjiang Laboratory Joint Research Centre for Offshore Wind Power takes shape, it symbolizes a collaborative initiative aimed at driving innovation and addressing the energy challenges of tomorrow. Through concerted research efforts and knowledge exchange, the partnership between PolyU and the Laboratory is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing offshore wind power technology, thereby contributing to a sustainable energy future.
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In a landmark display of indigenous innovation, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) unveiled its latest breakthrough: the NeoStand Electric Standing Wheelchair. This cutting-edge mobility solution promises to redefine accessibility for wheelchair users across India.
With its emphasis on user empowerment and well-being enabled by technology, NeoStand stands poised to usher in a new era of accessibility, where every individual, regardless of ability, can realise their full potential.
Led by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, Head of the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, the development of NeoStand represents a significant milestone in the quest for inclusive technology.
At the heart of NeoStand lies a commitment to user-centric design and functionality. Unlike conventional wheelchairs, NeoStand features a motorised standing mechanism that allows users to effortlessly transition between sitting and standing positions with the push of a button. This innovative feature opens up a world of possibilities for individuals with mobility impairments, enabling them to engage in face-to-face interactions, access higher shelves, and experience the physical and psychological benefits of standing.
The launch event illuminated the profound societal impact of NeoStand, showcasing its potential to redefine accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with mobility impairments. By bridging the gap between innovation and social responsibility, NeoStand symbolises a transformative shift towards a more equitable and empowering future
“These translational research endeavours underscore our commitment to fostering social impact through innovative solutions,” remarked Professor Kamakoti. “Indeed, NeoStand represents more than just a mobility aid; it symbolises a paradigm shift in how we perceive and address the needs of individuals with disabilities.”
One of the key drivers behind NeoStand’s development is its emphasis on promoting user independence and well-being. For many wheelchair users, the ability to stand remains an elusive goal, often hampered by physical limitations and reliance on external assistance. NeoStand seeks to address these challenges head-on, offering users the freedom to stand comfortably whenever needed. This not only enhances their physical health by improving blood circulation and digestion but also fosters a sense of empowerment and autonomy.
The journey from concept to reality has been made possible through a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. Sponsored by a company as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative and developed in partnership with NeoMotion, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, NeoStand exemplifies the transformative potential of public-private collaboration.
“The launch of a new product this evening for the differently abled signifies a turning point in our endeavour to foster inclusiveness and empowerment,” remarked Mr. Sudhakar Rao, IAS (Rtd), Member of the Board of Directors at the company.
Professor Srinivasan, the driving force behind NeoStand’s development, highlighted the device’s therapeutic benefits and ease of use. “Integrating standing functionality into a wheelchair provides health benefits as well as functional and psychological benefits to the user,” she explained.
Testimonials from users like Mr. Justin Jesudas, a quadriplegic individual, further attest to the life-changing impact of NeoStand who noted that, “The ability to stand with just a push of a button makes the wheelchair even more inclusive, helping quadriplegics to stand independently.”
Looking ahead, NeoStand stands out for individuals with mobility impairments, promising a future where accessibility knows no bounds. As India continues to embrace innovation and inclusivity, initiatives like NeoStand serve as a testament to the transformative power of technology in shaping a more equitable society.