OpenAI Partners with Gates Foundation and ADPC for AI Disaster Response Workshop in Asia
Key Points
- 50 disaster management leaders from 13 Asian countries participated in AI workshop
- ChatGPT usage surged 17× during recent cyclones in affected regions
- Custom GPTs and workflows developed for disaster response applications
Summary
OpenAI hosted its inaugural AI Jam for Disaster Management in Bangkok, bringing together 50 disaster management leaders from 13 Asian countries. The workshop, conducted in partnership with the Gates Foundation, Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), and DataKind, focused on transforming AI interest into practical disaster response applications.
Key Points
- Multi-country participation: Representatives from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam attended
- Growing AI adoption during crises: ChatGPT usage increased 17× during Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka and 3.2× during Cyclone Senyar in Thailand
- Practical focus: Participants worked with OpenAI mentors to build custom GPTs and reusable workflows for situation reporting, needs assessment, and public communication
- Regional disaster impact: Asia accounts for 75% of people affected by disasters globally, with ASEAN countries facing over $11 billion in disaster costs
- Future expansion: Plans for a second phase focusing on pilot deployments and deeper technical collaboration across the region