TLDR: Georgetown University computer science Ph.D. candidate Wisdom Obinna participated in a prestigious two-week United Nations Graduate Study Programme in Geneva, Switzerland. Selected from over 1,250 applicants, Obinna joined 51 graduate students from 41 countries to discuss international politics and diplomacy, with a significant focus on the ethical implications of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and brain-computer interfaces. His involvement highlights the growing importance of AI ethics in global governance.
Georgetown University’s commitment to responsible technology was underscored this summer as Ph.D. candidate Wisdom Obinna (G’29) represented the institution at the esteemed United Nations Graduate Study Programme in Geneva, Switzerland. The intensive two-week seminar, held in July 2025, brought together 52 graduate students from 41 nations, chosen from a competitive pool of over 1,250 applicants.
Obinna, a computer science Ph.D. student whose research at Georgetown focuses on user security, online safety, responsible AI, and human-computer interaction, contributed to critical discussions on the ethical governance of rapidly advancing technologies. His group specifically concentrated on formulating recommendations for the ethical deployment of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and brain-computer interfaces, reflecting the program’s broader agenda of international politics and diplomacy.
The program’s structure involved morning sessions dedicated to meetings with various U.N. officials, providing participants with direct insights into the organization’s operations. Afternoons were reserved for robust debates on pressing global issues and the collaborative drafting of guidelines for the U.N. to consider. Obinna noted that his academic background in intelligent systems at Georgetown provided him with a well-informed perspective on how to responsibly manage these technological advancements, though he emphasized the significant learning experience gained from his peers.
Reflecting on his participation, Obinna stated, “It was truly an experience I really wanted to have.” He further highlighted the collaborative aspect, adding, “It’s been enriching to connect with people who I could work with in the future on projects from research to providing solutions to critical challenges facing our planet.” This sentiment underscores the program’s aim to foster future leaders in international relations and technology governance.
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Obinna’s work at Georgetown, advised by Prof. Elissa Redmiles, examines content generated by intelligent systems and seeks to develop more efficient, user-centered, and harm-free systems. His participation in the U.N. program aligns perfectly with his academic pursuits and the increasing global recognition of AI’s profound impact on privacy, safety, and security.
