Harnessing responsible use of technology for social and economic development in Burkina Faso: supporting community-led cultural heritage data governance through digital/AI literacy
- Project status
- Ongoing
- Departments
- International
This project will promote sustainable economic and social development among underserved communities in Burkina Faso by enabling responsible use of technology for cultural heritage data governance through better digital/AI literacy. African cultural content, particularly from such communities, is currently underrepresented online. Broadening digital access raises concerns about how to raise awareness about cultural heritage and market cultural products online, while avoiding misrepresentation, misuse and misappropriation of community data. Artificial intelligence tools can help teach digital skills, but may also pose new risks to artists’ livelihoods through style mimicry based on unauthorised internet data scraping. In this project, humanities and technical experts will work with adult traditional craft and music practitioners in Burkina Faso to understand and address their digital governance needs. Appropriate ‘AI literacy for culture’ capacity-building materials for communities and digital intermediaries (e.g. museums, NGOs) will be developed, tested and disseminated to Burkinabe and other African stakeholders including policymakers.
Research Team: Dr Harriet Deacon, University of Hull; Dr Leonce Ki, Nazi Boni University; Dr Bhupesh Mishra, University of Hull; Dr Kevin Pimbblet, University of Hull