Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva proudly participated in the highly anticipated AI for Developing Countries Forum (AIFOD) 2025 Summit, held at the United Nations in Geneva. Our Vice President of International Affairs, Dr. Minja Bolesnikov, represented SSBM Geneva at this pivotal global event, contributing to transformative discussions on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in fostering development and equity worldwide.
AIFOD 2025: Advancing AI for Global Good
The AIFOD 2025 Geneva Summit brought together an extraordinary assembly of global leaders, innovators, and visionaries dedicated to harnessing AI’s potential for the greater good. With a mission to bridge the AI accessibility gap between developed and developing nations, the summit showcased revolutionary advancements in AI technologies tailored to healthcare, education, and economic growth.
Beyond the technological breakthroughs, AIFOD 2025 served as a platform for critical conversations about the ethical use of AI and the development of policies that could impact billions of lives. By addressing the unique challenges faced by developing nations, the forum emphasized a shared vision: making AI a universal right, accessible to all, not a privilege reserved for a few.
Enrika Uusitalo, an SSBM Geneva’s Online Global Doctor of Business Administration program student, had the incredible opportunity to participate in the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos. Representing SSBM Geneva and her company, Sarens, Enrika engaged in high-level discussions on renewable energy, sustainability, and global collaboration. Her experience at WEF provided valuable insights that align with her doctoral research on offshore foundations for port marshaling operations within a green port concept. In her own words, Enrika shares her reflections on the event, the thought-provoking conversations she participated in, and the key takeaways that will shape her academic and professional journey.
Message from Enrika Uusitalo, Online GDBA program:
”Participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos has been an interesting and unforgettable experience, aligning with my academic goals and professional dedication to renewable energy and sustainable development. Representing company Sarens and the SSBM, I had the privilege of attending discussions, engaging with forward-thinking leaders, and contributing to dialogues that aligned with my ongoing doctoral research on the feasibility of offshore foundations for port marshaling operations within a green port concept.
Davos, often described as the epicenter of global collaboration, provided a platform to explore sustainability, innovation, and equality.
I participated in a series of high-impact events, beginning with sessions on renewable energy and net-zero strategies. It highlighted the urgency of accelerating the green energy transition and decarbonizing industrial assets. Insights from sessions directly related to my PhD research, emphasizing the role of sustainable ports in supporting offshore renewable energy projects and mitigating environmental impact.
One of the most thought-provoking engagements was the Equality Lounge at World Woman Davos. Interesting discussions provided the idea that progress can only be achieved when all voices are heard and empowered. It became clear: diversity and inclusion are cornerstones for innovation in complex global challenges like climate change.
Mental health and well-being appeared multiple times across events. In a world wrestling with mounting pressures, the connection between individual health and sustainability became evident. Innovation in natural healing methods, discussed by experts and practitioners, provided different approaches and ideas that a healthy and balanced population is fundamental to achieving sustainability goals. After all, it is only when individuals prosper – communities, economies, and ecosystems can flourish.
The political discussions were equally important, focusing on the global synergies necessary to maintain momentum toward sustainability. Leaders from diverse sectors debated strategies for harmonizing policies, mobilizing investments, and strengthening international cooperation. The message was clear: sustainability is not a personal endeavor but a shared responsibility of all of us: nations, industries, and individuals must work together to achieve lasting change.
This unique opportunity to exchange opinions on climate change with high-profile decision-makers, including climate Envoy of Netherlands H.R.H. Prince Jaime de Bourbon de Parme, former Secretary of the US John F. Kerry, a philanthropic leader dedicated to ending the use of fossil fuels Mr. Andrew Forrest, representatives from the Pakistan Government. Besides different industries, geographies, and cultures we all agreed: that different strategies and perspectives have to be connected globally to battle climate change and promote sustainable development.
Davos was also a reminder of the connection of all the issues: renewable energy transition, mental health, equality, and innovation. It is not an isolated challenge but related threads in the chain of sustainable development. As I continue my doctoral journey at SSBM, the insights and connections gained at Davos will shape my research and professional endeavors. The path to sustainability is complex, but with collaborative efforts, innovative tools, and a commitment to shared goals, it is a journey worth undertaking.”
