Technological Impact 6-week course

Dr Akbar Hossain is a Computer and Information technologist with an international background, and extensive research and teaching experience in Information technology for health and Cyber security spaces. He is involved in developing practical solutions using Data analytics, AI and ML methods. His focus is on the implementation of information technology within a commercial setting, including the ability to self-manage, problem-solving, decision-making, juggle competing demands, and meet frequent deadlines.

SESSION Abstract: Our digital world is under siege in ways most people never see. While organisations race to digitise every function of modern life, a vast criminal economy has taken root beneath the visible internet — one that is selling attack tools, buying stolen credentials, and demanding ransoms worth billions of dollars each year.

Ransomware is no longer the domain of lone hackers. It has become a service industry, complete with customer support, affiliate programs, and profit-sharing agreements, operated by groups whose sophistication rivals legitimate technology companies. Behind this ecosystem lies the dark web: an anonymous infrastructure that enables cybercriminals to organise, scale, and evade detection across national borders.

Dr Akbar Hossain will unravel how this shadowy economy actually works — who the threat actors are, what drives them, how ransom payments are laundered through cryptocurrency, and why law enforcement consistently struggles to keep pace. Drawing on research analysing over 150 academic publications and real-world incidents from Colonial Pipeline to the Marks & Spencer breach, this session will show what organisations, policymakers, and individuals must understand to protect themselves in an era where ransomware has become a global socio-technical phenomenon.

Frances Valintine CNZM is a leading technologist and educator focused on the technologies shaping the world and impacting how we live, work and connect. She has led and founded multiple institutes of higher education and is currently the Chair of academyEX Group, an Australian and New Zealand postgraduate institute focused on qualifications and programmes for working professionals. Frances is also on the Board of the University of Silicon Valley; she is a recipient of the Flying Kiwi Award and an inductee to the New Zealand Hitech Hall of Fame. She was also recognised by the CIO Awards for her lifetime contribution to technology. In 2014, her organisation, The Mind Lab, won the Best Start-Up in Asia-Pacific award, as judged by Sir Richard Branson and Steve Wozniak. She has a Master's degree from the University of Melbourne and is an alumnus of the Singularity University.

SESSION Abstract: How did we get here? Our world has been shaped by technology and digitalisation. In just three short decades, we moved from being slow adopters of the Internet to supercharged adopters of artificial intelligence. The speed of adoption and change has moved at a dizzying pace, and it is hard to imagine what the world will look like in 2030. Frances will decipher the world of technological disruption and paint a path of the journey ahead, as AI, Quantum Computing, Robotics and Data change the building blocks of the future.

With a wealth of experience including 20+ years in horticulture, healthcare, engineering and hi-tech industries. Callum's dedication to Te Matau-a-Māui and his expertise in sustainable business practices have been pivotal in enhancing the growth and success of various prominent New Zealand and industry organisations. His unique perspective, fuelled by a deep understanding of business challenges and a passion for supporting the industry. Known for his ability to navigate complex business challenges, Callum applies a systems-thinking approach to innovation, leadership, and governance. His work spans new product development, organisational strategy, and building resilient operating models that support both commercial success and environmental outcomes. His versatility across both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors is reflected in his contributions to organisations and highly recognised brands, such as Fisher & Paykel Healthcare and FMCG companies. He now leads the development of advanced AI, sensor, and automation technologies, taking locally built innovation from Hawke’s Bay to key markets.

Session Abstract: Bridging the Gap: How Nature-First AI is Transforming Industry and Sustainability

In an era where technological advancement often comes at an environmental cost, how can we build smart solutions that are both highly effective and deeply sustainable? Callum Ross, Founder and CEO of RossAi, will share his journey from experimenting with timber in a Hawke's Bay garage to developing award-winning, globally competitive AI sensor technologies.

This presentation will explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and environmental responsibility. Callum will discuss how his team applies "Kiwi grit" to solve complex data and automation challenges without outsourcing, resulting in products like LabLess™ that provide real-time, in-situ environmental testing. Attendees will learn how nature-first design principles—such as using woodpulp-based biocomposites instead of plastics—are not just decorative, but essential for the future of scalable, sustainable technology. By examining real-world applications in agriculture and food production, Callum will demonstrate how businesses can reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and make faster, more confident decisions through the power of AI.

Istvan Lengyel is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Computing, having come from a Senior IS Management role for a global biotech firm in the UK. Prior to his work in the UK, Istvan worked for a number of mulit-national global companies and the government sector within New Zealand and in the USA banking and lending sector. Istvan has successfully operated an IT security and consulting business and has been certified as a Prince2 Practitioner, ITIL, Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and Compaq/HP ASE. Istvan has over 20 years of solid business IT experience and is passionate about innovation and knowledge sharing.

As Programme Leader at Eastern Institute of Technology, I provide academic leadership across multiple programmes including BCS, CITE, CBAT, and the New Zealand Diploma in Information Systems. In this capacity, I collaborate with faculty and staff to enhance educational offerings and ensure the success of students in the Hawke's Bay and Tairāwhiti regions.

With a PhD in Computer Science from Auckland University of Technology, I am committed to advancing research and education in business and computing. My role as Research Co-chair supports the development of research across these disciplines, while my work as a Senior Lecturer focuses on delivering undergraduate and postgraduate courses. My dedication to student-centered learning and vocational education drives my efforts toward fostering innovation and excellence.

SESSION abstract: Matihiko Minds: AI is now part of many young people’s lives, but what makes it trustworthy, respectful, and safe? In this session, we explore how generative AI can be shaped to better support Indigenous rangatahi, not just through accuracy, but through culture, relationships, and human oversight. Using examples from the Matihiko Minds project, we will discuss why some AI responses may appear strong on the surface yet still fall short in cultural appropriateness. This is a chance to learn more about the promises and limits of AI and to consider how communities can help guide its future in more responsible and meaningful ways.

A strategic science leader with expertise in biotechnology, and translational R&D. At Mara Bio, Maya leads the innovation strategy and technology roadmap, aligning scientific direction with commercial priorities and long-term growth objectives.

With around 20 years experience in the biotech sector, she has led multidisciplinary research programs across academia and industry in New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East, translating microbial science into scalable, market-ready solutions across food, health, energy, and environmental sectors.

Her focus spans innovation management, science commercialization, cross-functional leadership, and building high-performing R&D teams that deliver sustainable impact and competitive advantage.