Iqbal Quadir: How mobile phones can fight poverty

The video discusses the persistent issue of poverty despite global knowledge and aid. It critiques the ineffectiveness of aid, which often empowers authorities rather than citizens. The speaker emphasizes the importance of empowering citizens through technology, particularly telecommunication, to boost productivity and economic growth. The 'cow model' is introduced as a successful telecommunication strategy in Bangladesh, highlighting the role of connectivity in development. The video concludes with lessons learned and future projects aimed at sustainable development.

What is the main critique of foreign aid provided to poor countries over the last 60 years?

• It has successfully reduced poverty.

• It has often empowered authorities instead of citizens.

• It has led to rapid economic growth.

• It has empowered citizens.

What historical lesson does the speaker draw from Europe regarding economic growth?

• Empowering citizens through technology can lead to better governance.

• Aid from rich countries is essential for growth.

• Economic growth is independent of citizen empowerment.

• Technological advancements have no impact on governance.

What realization did the speaker have about connectivity while working in New York?

• Connectivity is irrelevant to productivity.

• Connectivity is crucial for productivity in both modern and rural settings.

• Connectivity only benefits urban areas.

• Connectivity is too expensive to implement.

According to the speaker, what is the economic impact of installing a telephone in a poor country?

• It can significantly increase productivity and economic output.

• It is only beneficial in urban areas.

• It costs more than it benefits.

• It has no significant impact.

What was the speaker's innovative idea for using telephones in Bangladesh?

• To use telephones as a business tool for villagers.

• To provide free telephones to everyone.

• To sell telephones at a high price.

• To restrict telephone use to urban areas.

What was the role of Grameen Bank in the telecommunication project?

• They opposed the project.

• They offered infrastructure to spread the service.

• They provided financial aid to the government.

• They funded the entire project.

What was the financial outcome of the telecommunication project in Bangladesh?

• It broke even with no profit.

• It was a financial failure.

• It generated significant profits and contributed to government revenue.

• It led to a loss for the company.

How did the speaker's project impact the local entrepreneurs in Bangladesh?

• It provided no financial benefit.

• It had no impact on their daily lives.

• It increased their income and improved welfare.

• It led to financial losses.

What lesson does the speaker emphasize about the role of poor people in economic development?

• They are a valuable resource and can drive economic growth.

• They should rely solely on government support.

• They cannot contribute to economic development.

• They are merely recipients of aid.

What future project is the speaker involved in with Dean Kamen?

• Developing new telecommunication networks.

• Creating power generators using biogas.

• Building new urban infrastructure.

• Providing more foreign aid.