Exploring Blockchain's Future: Fr. Ian Leads Engaging Workshop on Technology Implications
By Ms. Maureen Obare
On Saturday, July 20, 2024, Fr. Ian VanHeusen led a half-day training session on “Understanding the Implications of Technology and Blockchain” at Hekima Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR), followed by another session the next day at Baraka Agricultural College in Molo. These two events were organized by the Proposed Hekima University (PHU) in partnership with the Crescite team and attracted 42 participants from diverse sectors including agriculture, business, academia, and non-governmental organization (NGO) world. The goal was to explore how blockchain technology could revolutionize various fields and their prospects.
The workshop began with Fr. Ian’s engaging lecture, which delved into the current state and future potential of blockchain technology. He discussed how blockchain could fundamentally change social, political, and economic systems by offering a secure and transparent method for managing and transferring both physical and digital assets through tokenization. By converting assets into digital tokens, blockchain ensures secure transactions and simplifies asset ownership and transfer.
Fr. Ian highlighted blockchain’s transformative power, particularly its potential applications in supply chain management, healthcare, and voting systems. He noted that as blockchain technology evolves, identifying widely accepted use cases will be essential for its broader adoption. His insights painted a picture of a future where blockchain could significantly impact various sectors by improving efficiency and transparency.
The workshop fostered a dynamic atmosphere of engagement and interaction. Participants were actively involved, posing questions and sharing their thoughts on the implications of blockchain technology. This exchange of ideas enriched the learning experience, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of blockchain’s capabilities and its potential to drive innovation. These trainings not only showcased blockchain’s transformative potential but also underscored the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue in advancing technology. As blockchain continues to evolve, initiatives like this will be pivotal in exploring its possibilities and ensuring its effective integration into various sectors. PHU is planning to offer short courses on blockchain technology, available both online and in person.
Father Ian VanHeusen, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Raleigh, NC, currently serves at East Carolina University (ECU) Newman and St. Peter Parish in Greenville and is known for his research and teaching on prayer and meditation, he was introduced to the Proposed Hekima University by Crescite. Crescite, co-founded by Eddie Cullen, is a pioneering faith-based token initiative collaborating with PHU. The Crescite Protocol aims to establish a decentralized finance (DeFi) model rooted in faith principles. By leveraging community stewardship, impact-driven investments, and innovative technologies, Crescite strives to create a global network that fosters profitable yet impactful economic activities, serving a higher purpose for humanity in a novel and meaningful way.
