Sharjah International Conference On Artificial Intelligence And Linguistics Highlights AI's Role In Communication

The inaugural Sharjah International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Linguistics recently concluded at the American University of Sharjah. The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, brought together over 600 experts from academia and industry. Over two days, participants presented 100 papers and conducted 20 workshops focused on AI's role in language studies.

Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, highlighted the conference's significance in establishing Sharjah as a research hub. He emphasised the integration of AI with linguistic studies to promote international collaboration while preserving cultural identity. He expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi for their support.

The conference explored AI’s impact on global communication and cultural diversity. Discussions included AI advancements in communication tools, language learning, and cultural translation. Notable speakers included Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egypt's Minister of Culture, Ashraf El-Shihy, former Egyptian Minister of Higher Education, Lorenzo Fanara, Italy's Ambassador to the UAE, and Imed Zitouni from Google.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, praised the event for its focus on pioneering research and fostering global partnerships. Sessions addressed AI’s influence on communication practices and linguistic studies, highlighting its transformative potential in these fields.

The Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Badr University in Egypt and the Abjjad Platform. These agreements aim to boost research collaboration and academic cooperation through knowledge exchange.

Abdulaziz Almusallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, cautioned against AI’s potential to hinder creativity among youth. He urged cultural institutions to ensure factual accuracy while reducing reliance on AI technologies.

Preserving Language Through Technology

The digital and GPT editions of the Historical Arabic Dictionary were launched during the conference. This initiative aims to preserve the Arabic language through AI-driven research efforts.

Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director-General of Emirates Scholar Center, underscored the conference’s role in fostering research collaboration to address digital challenges. Dr. Firas Habbal reiterated their commitment to shaping AI’s role in linguistics through global partnerships.

Recommendations for Future Engagement

Participants recommended enhancing engagement through interactive tools and practical workshops featuring case studies from diverse regions. They also suggested publishing a special issue in a peer-reviewed journal based on conference research findings.

The event concluded with expressions of gratitude towards H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for his unwavering support for knowledge, culture, and research initiatives.

With inputs from WAM