Inaugural Sharjah International Conference On AI And Linguistics Set To Begin On October 17, 2024

The Sharjah International Conference on AI & Linguistics (SICAL) is set to take place from 17th to 18th October 2024 at the American University of Sharjah (AUS). This inaugural event, under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, will delve into the convergence of artificial intelligence and linguistics. Organised with the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, it promises insightful discussions.

Esteemed speakers such as Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh, Dr. Ashraf El-Shihy, Lorenzo Fanara, and Imed Zitouni will grace the conference. They will explore how AI and natural language processing are transforming linguistic studies and global communication. The event aims to foster collaboration among students, scholars, and business leaders in leveraging AI's potential.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, emphasised the conference's significance as a platform for assessing AI's impact on global communication. He noted AUS’s dedication to supporting these discussions through active participation. The event is open to students, scholars, government officials, industry leaders, and the public.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stated that AUS has been leading conversations about technology and education. She highlighted that the focus should be on how quickly AI will transform society rather than if it will happen. The aim is to create forums for proactive collaboration in reshaping global communications positively.

The conference will feature sessions like "Governmental Strategy for Linguistic Intelligence and Culture" and "Language, Culture, and Identity in the Digital Age." These sessions reflect AI’s influence across sectors such as technology, language, education, and government. Around a dozen panel discussions with 50 speakers will provide diverse insights into these fields.

Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi expressed that this conference marks a significant step for Sharjah's reputation in scientific inquiry and global cooperation in research and technology. The Emirates Scholar Center is committed to integrating AI with linguistic studies while fostering collaborations that respect cultural identities.

Future Prospects

SICAL is expected to become an annual event offering a platform for exploring advancements in AI and linguistics. It aims to attract over 600 participants with 100 presentations and 20 workshops planned. This highlights the growing global interest in these areas of study.

The conference seeks to bridge technology with culture by ensuring AI's impact extends beyond technical aspects. Through collective efforts, it aims to advance innovations in communication technologies while preserving cultural identities.

With inputs from WAM