Professor Dave Lewis, Associate Director of ADAPT at Trinity College Dublin’s School of Computer Science and Statistics, has been awarded the NSAI Excellence in Standards 1997 Award at the recent National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) Awards Ceremony. The award recognises Professor Lewis’s significant contributions to the development of international standards in data governance and artificial intelligence (AI).
Professor Lewis has played a key role in establishing best practices for responsible AI technologies and data management. His work in shaping international standards, particularly in digital innovation, has been influential for both industry and policymakers, with a strong focus on promoting trust, transparency, and ethical standards in the digital space.
Speaking about the award, Professor Dave Lewis said: “”I am honoured to be recognised by the NSAI for my work on the development of international standards. As digital technologies increasingly shape the world around us, it’s essential that we establish standards that promote trust, transparency, and ethical practice. These frameworks not only protect individuals and businesses but also foster innovation by creating a solid foundation for responsible digital transformation.”
The NSAI Awards Ceremony, which focused on the theme “Standards & The Digital World,” celebrated excellence across various sectors, acknowledging those leading advancements in standards that drive positive change. Professor Lewis’s contribution underscores the importance of setting robust standards in an increasingly digital and data-driven world.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD said: “The NSAI does such important work, both for Irish businesses and consumers. Standards play a crucial role in Ireland’s economy; they keep us safe and encourage businesses to innovate and develop best practice. Standards have a key role in disseminating new knowledge and the development and promotion of state-of-the-art practices in all areas of industry. They are also an essential tool in supporting the implementation of national policies such as “Harnessing Digital – The Digital Ireland Framework” and “Connecting Government 2030: A Digital and ICT Strategy for Ireland’s Public Service. Thank you to all those in the NSAI who have worked to develop both Irish and European Standards in these vital areas for the betterment of both the public and private sectors.”
In recent years, digital technologies have become increasingly pervasive in our everyday lives from the way we socialise, shop, work and entertain ourselves. The standards that are being developed provide a common framework for digital technology applications. They also complement regulations and laws, contributing to digital transformation governance. Adoption of standards ensures compatibility and interoperability among services, products, and processes, while guaranteeing minimum levels of quality and safety.
Speaking to the importance of World Standards Day, NSAI Chief Executive, Geraldine Larkin said: “Our forum and awards ceremony recognises the ongoing contribution of standards, and the standardisation community in Ireland, in shaping a safer, better and sustainable world. World Standards Day highlights the importance of standards in today’s economic environment and the valuable work of the experts who contribute to the development of standards. The advancement of standards in the area of the digital supports the competitiveness of Ireland on a global scale by displaying leadership in this evolving sector.”
