Telecom Egypt chair calls for ethical framework to guide AI development

The head of Telecom Egypt urged Saturday the establishment of a clear ethical code to accompany rapid technological change, saying youth are no longer just the future but active decision-makers today.

Lubna Helal, chairperson of Telecom Egypt (WE), made the remarks during the fourth edition of the Egyptian Women Summit, highlighting the need to address the human and ethical dimensions of the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions alongside technical and material progress.

“Material changes brought by these revolutions are already a reality, but the true challenge lies in managing their ethical and human impact to ensure balanced and sustainable development,” Helal said.

She noted that machines are no longer mere tools, but essential partners in decision-making, calling for a reconsideration of how technology will shape society. “Youth are no longer just the future—they are already shaping it, with emerging leaders in economic, political and business sectors making an impact today,” she added.

Helal also emphasised the importance of collaboration among government institutions, academia, and young people to define humanity’s relationship with technology and implement an ethical framework that keeps pace with rapid AI and technological advances.

She drew on Egypt’s cultural, civilisational, and religious heritage, saying the country should play a visible role in shaping the technological future. “Egypt remains more of a content recipient than a creator, which imposes added responsibility to define its ethical and social contribution to global technological development,” Helal said.

The event also highlighted mentorship programmes and entrepreneurial initiatives, including participation by CEOs and business leaders, aimed at equipping young people with the skills to navigate future technological challenges.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English