INTERVENTION STATEMENT FOR THE 2026 UN ECOSOC HLPF ON BEHALF OF THE UN NG MAJOR GROUPS

INTERVENTION STATEMENT FOR THE 2026 UN ECOSOC HLPF ON BEHALF OF THE UN NG MAJOR GROUPS “Accelerating SDG Achievement in African Countries, Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)”: Local Innovation, Digital Transformation and Strategic Partnerships as Catalysts for Sustainable Development By Dr. Amos Obi Principal Innovator, HETAVED Skills Academy for Innovations Founder, HETAVED AI Digito Academy Endorsed ICT, STI, TVET and Gender Trendsetter Global Digital Game Changer On behalf of the NGO Major Group Distinguished Chair, Excellences, Colleagues and Development Partners, I appreciate this opportunity to contribute to this important dialogue on accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda across African countries, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs). As we approach 2030, it is evident that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires more than policy commitments. It demands scalable local innovation, digital inclusion, strengthened partnerships, and investment in people. Africa possesses one of the world's youngest populations. If equipped with Artificial Intelligence, digital technologies, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), entrepreneurship, and green skills, this demographic dividend can become a powerful engine for sustainable development. At the HETAVED Skills Academy for Innovations and the HETAVED AI Digito Academy in Nigeria, we are demonstrating a community-driven model that aligns with the objectives of SDGs 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13 and 17 by: 1-Building AI, Digital and Nature Based Green Skills for Youth, Women and Entrepreneurs; 2-Promoting Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Digital Employment Opportunities; 3-Supporting Local Solutions in Climate-Smart Agriculture, Circular Economy and Environmental Sustainability; 4-Advancing Community-based Digital Literacy and Inclusive Technology Adoption; 5-Strengthening Multi-stakeholder Partnerships with Government, Academia, Civil society and International organizations. More on these innovative projects for scaling could be accessed at: https://balancedlivingacademy.blogspot.com; https://www.amazon.com/author/amosobi: and at: https://www.youtube.com/c/AMOSAOBI; And at: https://www.instagram.com/hetavednetworks; https://www.facebook.com/hetavednetworks; and etc These experiences show that locally owned innovation ecosystems can produce practical, affordable and scalable solutions that respond directly to community needs while advancing national SDG priorities. To accelerate progress across Africa, LDCs and LLDCs, we respectfully recommend: 1-Expanding investments in AI, digital infrastructure and affordable connectivity. 2-Mainstreaming Digital Skills, TVET and Entrepreneurship within National Education Systems. 3-Increasing Financing for Youth-led and Women-led Innovation Ecosystems. 4-Supporting Local Innovation Hubs Capable of Scaling Community-based SDG Solutions. 5-Strengthening South-South and triangular cooperation for technology transfer and knowledge exchange. 6-Deepening partnerships among governments, the private sector, academia, civil society and development partners to accelerate implementation The 2026 High-level Political Forum focuses on transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated action, with in-depth reviews of SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11 and 17. These priorities reinforce the importance of investing in innovation ecosystems that integrate clean water, sustainable energy, resilient infrastructure, inclusive cities and strong partnerships. (hlpf.un.org) In closing, Africa does not lack talent. Africa needs greater investment, stronger partnerships and broader access to innovation. By empowering local innovators, equipping young people with future-ready skills, and supporting community-driven solutions, we can significantly accelerate progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that no one is left behind. Thank you. Dr. Amos Obi, Principal Innovator, HETAVED SKILLS ACADEMY and Endorsed Global STI, ICT, TVET , GENDER TRENSETTER, DIGITAL GAME CHANGER and MEANINGFUL BUSINESS Innovator for the SDGsm and the 2030 Global Agender and the Africa 2063 Agenda