Innovating with CKAN: Lessons from Open Data Initiatives in India

Note from Sept 20: Due to unforeseen health circumstances, we must regretfully cancel today's CKAN Monthly Live meetup with CivicDataLab. But don't worry, we've already rescheduled for Oct 18, Wed. Remember, it's every 3rd Wednesday of the month! Mark your calendars and thank you for your understanding!

This CKAN Monthly Live is not to be missed, as it will feature guest speakers from CivicDataLab, a pioneering organization that exemplifies how CKAN can be leveraged for impactful social initiatives in India.

🔥 About the Project

CivicDataLab works at the intersection of data, technology, design, and social science to strengthen civic engagements in India. The organization works to harness the potential of open knowledge movements and better enable citizens to engage in matters of public reform. They have developed several open data platforms using CKAN to increase access to public datasets in the areas of Public Finance, Urban Governance, and Law and Justice. Beyond that, CivicDataLab engages in the development of highly specialized, custom data solutions that serve to arm government entities and civil society organizations with the data-driven insights required for intelligent discourse and effective policy-making.

🎯 Why Should You Attend?

This session offers a unique learning opportunity for data scientists, policymakers, social activists, and CKAN enthusiasts alike. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
- Understand the motivation and challenges behind creating diverse data platforms like OpenBudgetsIndia, Open City, and Justice Hub
- Discover how CivicDataLab manages and sustains their open-data initiatives long-term
- Gain valuable insights into the lessons CivicDataLab has learned from using CKAN for their projects
- Learn about CivicDataLab’s framework for developing custom data platforms by decoupling CKAN backend and frontend systems

Speakers

• DeepthiChand (DC)
  Co-Founder at CivicDataLab
  A luminary in the data and tech space, Deepthi Chand, commonly known as DC, is laser-focused on leveraging technology to elevate civic engagement across India. At CivicDataLab, he spearheads initiatives in Better Cities and Education, driving innovation through open-source platforms. His leadership in DataKind Bangalore has been pivotal, setting strategic direction and operational excellence.
  
• Abhinav Singh
  Tech Lead at CivicDataLab
  As the Tech Lead at CivicDataLab, Abhinav Singh is more than just a cog in the machine; he's the architect of the machine itself. Balancing mastery in Data Science and Backend Development, he orchestrates the tech infrastructure that powers CivicDataLab's transformative platforms. Passionate about knowledge sharing, Abhinav thrives in collaborative environments, delving deep to better understand and improve complex systems.
  
• Shoaib Ahmed
  Associate Lead Engineer - FrontEnd at CivicDataLab
  Shoaib Ahmed is not just a Frontend Engineer; he's a digital craftsman. Specializing in building intuitive, accessible, and inclusive web platforms, his work makes complex data digestible for diverse audiences. At CivicDataLab, Shoaib's cross-sectoral contributions have been invaluable in delivering platforms that truly democratize data.
  
• Sai Krishna
  Data Engineer at CivicDataLab
  Sai Krishna brings a unique blend of academic rigor and practical savvy to CivicDataLab as a Data Engineer. With a background that spans both development sector research and consulting, he’s focused on scaling impactful solutions via open-source technologies. Sai prefers to be identified as a problem solver rather than just a techie.

Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 18, 2023
• Time: 13:00 UTC
• How long: 60 mins
• Language: English

Register

• Reserve your spot here.

Google Meet joining info

• CLICK HERE to join with Google Meet
• Or dial: ‪(BG) +359 2 907 4153‬ PIN: ‪492 965 761‬#
• More phone numbers here
  

Meetings agenda

1. Welcome and introductions – 10 min
2. Presentation from CivicDataLab – 30 min
3. Discussion / Q&A – 15 min
4. Community announcements and sharing (if any) – 2 min
5. Closing – 3 min

You can have a look at the [CKAN Monthly Live] Meeting Doc. Feel free to add items and things you’d like to discuss to the agenda.

Stay Connected

Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and join our LinkedIn Group! You can also visit our website and blog to learn more! Our LinkedIn Page is brand new - follow us there and spread the word!

Don’t forget to share your experience by using #CKANMonthlyLive!

We look forward to seeing you all on CKAN Monthly Live!