The 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa Under was held on was held on 21-26 of October under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth.” Leaders from across the Commonwealth states gathered to discuss pressing global challenges like sustainable development, climate resilience, and security.

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Dr Paolo Tasca, co-founder and chairman at the DLT Science Foundation, went on stage before the Commonwealth leaders to showcase the foundation’s comprehensive £9 million commitment to advancing digital technology education and implementation across the 56 member states, over the next 5 years. "This partnership marks a transformative moment for digital education and innovation across the Commonwealth," said Professor Tasca.

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The partnership proposal consists of educational and innovation programmes with a particular focus on Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLTs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), featuring initiatives such as Global Deep Tech Online Hackathons, Deep Tech Lecture Series, Blockchain for Development Programmes, and an Online Community Forum for Emerging Digital Tech. An outstanding initiative within this partnership is the Commonwealth University Certification Registry (CUCER), a blockchain-based system that aims to simplify certification processes and strengthen the integrity of academic credentials.

These initiatives aim to empower people through education, supporting practical applications, foster digital innovation, and enhance access to technology and education. By facilitating entrepreneurship and encouraging large-scale impact, the collaboration promotes community-building.

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Dr Arjoon Suddhoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat, expressed his excitement regarding the potential of the partnership, particularly highlighting how Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and Artificial Intelligence can work in synergy.  

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Following discussions with several Commonwealth leaders, including His Excellency Paul Gomez, the High Commissioner of the Bahamas, Professor Tasca added:

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"Our £9 million investment over five years demonstrates our commitment to empowering young people, university students, entrepreneurs, and women across all Commonwealth nations with essential digital skills and resources."

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The partnership aims to work with Commonwealth citizens through its educational programmes, providing vital knowledge and tools in emerging technologies, alongside hackathons, workshops, and substantial startup funding opportunities for innovative projects.

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For more information about the DLT Science Foundation and its Commonwealth partnership, please visit our website or reach out to our partnerships team.

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