Raphael J. Olowo, Chief Executive of the Centre for Performance Audit & Forensics (CPAF), has urged Information Communication Technology (ICT) Innovators to use their skills responsibly and not engage in fraudulent activities.
Speaking at the Professional Talk at National ICT Innovation Hub (NII) at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) Nakawa Campus, on the 31st of May 2024, Olowo emphasized the importance of combating fraud, which he defined as an intentional act of deception for financial gain. He cautioned that fraud has devastating consequences on society and encouraged the ICT fraternity to play a vital role in preventing it.
Mr. Olowo advised the ICT Innovators to be good citizens and use their technology knowledge for good practices, citing a recent incident where an ICT colleague was arrested for allegedly misusing facilities at the innovation hub. He emphasized that ending fraud depends on individual choices and values, stressing the importance of transparency, accountability, and integrity.
"As tech professionals, you have the power to build a better society. Use your skills and knowledge responsibly," Olowo urged. "Remember, fraud is a personal choice, and it's up to each individual to choose the right path. As human beings, we have two sides, the one you see in public and the other when you are alone. Tech people are amazing at what they do so it’s your duty as a citizen to abide by the laws of the state” he said.
“’Use your skills and knowledge responsibly to build a better society, as computer specialists we can be extremely dangerous if we misuse our knowledge and skills!’’ Olowo said.
He also noted that the hub serves as a dynamic environment for ICT Innovators facing challenges with workspace, limited internet connectivity and searching for creative spaces that spur thinking.
Olowo also gave a valuable lesson for all looking to enhance their organizations integrity and the importance to build trust. He advised Innovators on the importance of relating with people at all levels, treating everyone with respect and dignity, and leveraging the think tank room at the hub to innovate new ideas for detecting fraud, enhancing digital transformation and building a digital economy.
"Let's think, build, and make our Enteprises, Country, and Government to be efficient and better," Mr. Olowo challenged the ICT Innovators.
The professional talk, organized by the National ICT Innovation Hub in collaboration with the Centre for Performance Auditing & Forensics (CPAF), centered around the theme of "Forensic Auditing and Investigations: Combating Fraud and Building Trust." The event featured a keynote address by Mr. Raphael Olowo, who delved into the applications of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies in fraud detection and prevention.
Mr. Olowo's insightful presentation emphasized the importance of integrity and responsibility in the professional pursuits of ICT Innovators, encouraging them to leverage their skills for the greater good. The talk also explored effective strategies for combating fraud, highlighting the crucial role that forensic auditing and investigations play in promoting trust and accountability.
The event brought together ICT Innovators and professionals from various fields, fostering a collaborative environment that promoted knowledge sharing and innovation.
About the National ICT Innovation Hub
The National ICT Innovation Hub (NIIH) at Uganda Institute of ICT Nakawa has been established by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MOICT &NG) to serve as a catalyst for home grown digital solutions and aims to catalyze entrepreneurship and digital employment across Uganda.
The Hub, whose target is to engage 1000 startups within 1000 days, all facilitated by a network of 1000 mentors is also proud to host 29 companies and part of its esteemed partners include Huawei Uganda, Centenary Technology services, MTN Uganda, Refactory, JCSE FI ICT Founders, H3C Corporate, Sunbird AI, ICDL Africa Limited, The Innovation village, Estonia Centre of International Development, Coursera and Japan International Development Agency (JICA).
The Innovation Hub also believes in creating an environment for ICT innovators facing challenges with workspace, limited internet connectivity and searching for creative spaces that spur thinking.
