Published Date::06/10/2024
Sharjah, UAE – The American University of Sharjah (AUS) and the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies are set to host the inaugural Sharjah International Conference on AI & Linguistics (SICAL) on October 17–18, 2024, at the AUS campus. This event, held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Sharjah, and Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, promises to delve into the transformative intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and linguistics.
SICAL will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including H.E. Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture; H.E. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egyptian Minister of Culture; H.E. Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh, Minister of Culture, Kingdom of Jordan; H.E. Dr. Ashraf El-Shihy, Former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Egypt; H.E. Ambassador Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE; and Imed Zitouni, Director of Google Engineering. These thought leaders will engage attendees in discussions on how AI and natural language processing (NLP) are revolutionizing linguistic studies and reshaping global communication.
American University of Sharjah has consistently been at the forefront of discussions on technology and education. Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi emphasized, “The question is not whether artificial intelligence will transform society, but rather how rapidly this transformation will occur. We aim to establish forums where our students, scholars, and business leaders can collaborate proactively to leverage the potential of AI and reshape global communications in ways that contribute positively to society.”
Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council and Chancellor of the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, added, “This conference represents a significant step forward for Sharjah’s reputation as a center for scientific inquiry and global cooperation in research and technology. We are deeply committed to integrating AI with linguistic studies, fostering global collaborations, and driving forward innovations in communication technologies that respect and preserve cultural identities. Our goal is to bridge the gap between technology and culture, ensuring that the impact of AI extends far beyond the technical realm.”
The conference will cover a wide range of topics, from “Governmental Strategy for Linguistic Intelligence and Culture” to “Language, Culture, and Identity in the Digital Age.” These sessions will explore how AI intersects with technology, language, education, and government, reflecting its profound influence on key sectors of the economy.
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, stated, “Given the rapid advancement of AI technology, this conference is a vital platform for the business, government, and academic communities in the UAE to collectively evaluate how AI and natural language processing are transforming global communications. We are delighted to support this important discussion through strong participation from AUS. Speakers and guests will leave with a deeper understanding of how AI is reshaping the landscape of linguistics and communication.”
SICAL will feature around a dozen panel discussions and 50 speakers, bringing together a unique mix of expertise in AI, linguistics, and global communication from institutions and companies such as AUS, King Abdulaziz University, Stanford University, UNESCO, IBM, and others. The event is expected to attract over 600 participants, showcasing 100 presentations and 20 workshops, highlighting the global interest in these fields. Although the conference is primarily for students, scholars, and government and industry leaders, it will also be open to the public, allowing enthusiasts in the future of language technology and AI to participate.
SICAL is envisaged to become an annual platform for students, academics, and industry professionals to share insights, foster connections, and explore the latest advancements in the field.
Q: When and where is the Sharjah International Conference on AI & Linguistics (SICAL) taking place?
A: SICAL is set to take place on October 17–18, 2024, at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) campus.
Q: Who are some of the distinguished speakers at SICAL?
A: Notable speakers include H.E. Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture; H.E. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egyptian Minister of Culture; H.E. Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh, Minister of Culture, Kingdom of Jordan; H.E. Dr. Ashraf El-Shihy, Former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Egypt; H.E. Ambassador Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE; and Imed Zitouni, Director of Google Engineering.
Q: What topics will be covered at the conference?
A: Topics will range from 'Governmental Strategy for Linguistic Intelligence and Culture' to 'Language, Culture, and Identity in the Digital Age,' exploring the intersection of AI, technology, language, education, and government.
Q: Who can attend the conference?
A: The conference is primarily for students, scholars, and government and industry leaders working in AI, linguistics, and global communication, but it is also open to the public, allowing enthusiasts in the future of language technology and AI to participate.
Q: How can I register for the conference?
A: For more information or to register, please visit https://ai-linguisticsconference.com/.