We are thrilled to announce a new addition to the Global Data Barometer team. Our new Data and Technology Lead, Feng Gao, has over a decade of experience in data research and advocacy. Feng brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our mission. In the last ten years, he has been extensively involved in various open data initiatives including co-founding Open Data China and the Shanghai Open Data Challenges (SODA). We invite you to learn more about Feng in this interview where he shares more about his commitment to fostering healthy data ecosystems that drive innovation and serve the public interest.
After completing my Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Southampton, I dedicated the last decade to researching and advocating for open data in China. My involvement encompassed a range of open data initiatives, including co-founding Open Data China and the SODA, a challenge-based open data innovation program. During my career, I have also been fortunate to collaborate with colleagues at the Open Knowledge Foundation, the Open Data Institute, Yale University, and the London School of Economics, participating in various fellowships and consultancy projects.
Where did your journey in public data begin?
I started off as an Ambassador for China for the Open Knowledge Foundation. This role marked the beginning of my deep involvement in the global movement for open data. It provided me with the opportunity to contribute as a researcher to the Open Data Barometer and to serve as a consultant to the UK City Open Data Index. I also had the chance to collaborate with the World Bank in hosting China’s inaugural open data forum. Building on these experiences, I co-founded Open Data China, further cementing my dedication to fostering an open data ecosystem that drives innovation and serves the public interest.
What key skills and knowledge do you bring to the GDB?
I hope to bring a thoughtful perspective, shaped by my time as an ambassador, community organiser, researcher, and advocate, to our collaborative mission. My aspiration is to support the cause of open data, striving to make its benefits more universally accessible and to thoughtfully engage with the intricate challenges of data justice and AI ethics. Additionally, I may also offer a nuanced understanding of the Asian and Chinese context, which could be valuable to the GDB.
In the age of Artificial Intelligence, responsible data governance is our bridge between technological advancement and the ethical imperative to use AI for the benefit all
How do you think the GDB can promote critical engagement and understanding of data infrastructures?
I am confident that the Global Data Barometer (GDB) offers an indispensable tool, highlighting the connection between data governance and the realisation of development goals. Its community-focused strategy goes beyond merely engaging the global community in data collection; it also provides local communities with the evaluative insights and open research data necessary to become empowered agents of change. This empowerment is essential, as it allows them to advocate effectively and implement concrete actions in addressing pivotal development challenges, including the critical issue of climate change.
At a time when the whole world is focusing on AI, what key lessons can be implemented to improve data foundations that power artificial intelligence?
In the age of AI, the key to improving data foundations lies in responsible data governance that ensures the diversity and transparency of AI training data. By increasing the supply of data in critical areas such as climate change and ensuring equitable access, we can empower AI to make decisions that are not only informed and inclusive but also aligned with the values of sustainability and social good. The governance of data, therefore, becomes a bridge between technological advancement and the ethical imperative to use AI for the benefit of all.
At the Global Data Barometer, we are looking forward to working with Feng as we venture into the second edition. Feng’s journey from being an Ambassador for China of the Open Knowledge Foundation to co-founding Open Data China and collaborating with global institutions highlights his commitment to the data movement. We are honoured to be part of his journey as he brings a nuanced understanding of the importance of ethical data governance and AI ethics. With him on our team, we hope to continue promoting responsible data governance and equitable access to data for better AI.