Over 3,000 tech experts gathered at QSTP's AI Week 2024 to explore the latest advancements in AI and its potential to revolutionize industries.
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| Shell, Google, and other tech giants join forces with local innovators at AI Week 2024 to drive AI advancements in the Middle East. Image: QSTP |
Doha, Qatar - December 27, 2024:
Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) successfully hosted its inaugural AI Week, bringing together over 3,000 tech experts, academics, and entrepreneurs from around the globe. The event highlighted the immense potential of AI to transform the Middle East, particularly in the energy sector.
Dan Jeavons, Vice President of Computational Science and Digital Innovation at Shell, emphasized the region's capacity to lead in AI development and application. He pointed out AI's potential to address pressing energy challenges such as climate change by optimizing renewable energy sources and improving operational efficiency.
Dr. Sanjay Chawla, Chief Scientist at Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI), highlighted the need for more Arabic data to develop robust AI models. He stressed the importance of collaboration to collect and curate Arabic language data, which could significantly accelerate AI innovation in the region.
Experts at AI Week emphasized the crucial role of ethics in AI development. Bekir Ciftler, Head of Data Sharing & Artificial Intelligence Department at the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), called for transparency, accountability, and responsible AI practices.
The event also delved into the potential of autonomous vehicles (AVs) in the Middle East. Experts agreed that the region's advanced infrastructure and focus on sustainability make it an ideal testing ground for AV technologies. However, challenges related to trust, privacy, and safety must be addressed before widespread adoption.
Dr. Jack Lau, President of QSTP, expressed pride in the success of AI Week and its potential to foster future collaborations. He highlighted QSTP's role in connecting local and global innovators, and its commitment to creating a thriving tech ecosystem in Qatar.
The event featured a diverse range of activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge AI technologies. Google and Shell were among the leading organizations that participated in the event, demonstrating their commitment to AI innovation and collaboration.