Sharjah is preparing to host its inaugural international conference dedicated to exploring the future of artificial intelligence (AI), linguistics, and global communication. Taking place on October 17-18, 2024, at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), the Sharjah International Conference on AI & Linguistics (SICAL) will be held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, alongside Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS.
This significant event is organized in collaboration with the Emirates Scholar Centre for Research and Studies, aiming to delve into the transformative intersection between AI and linguistic studies. A notable lineup of speakers will participate, including prominent officials like H.E. Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Culture, and H.E. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egyptian Minister of Culture. Additionally, industry leaders such as Imed Zitouni, Director of Google Engineering, will discuss the ways in which AI and natural language processing (NLP) are reshaping communication on a global scale.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi highlighted the relevance of the conference by stating, "The pressing question is not if AI will change our society, but how swiftly this change will occur. We aim to create platforms for students, scholars, and business leaders to collaborate and leverage AI’s potential for positive societal impact".
Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, noted that this conference marks a significant advancement in establishing Sharjah as a center for scientific inquiry and international cooperation. He emphasized the commitment of the Emirates Scholar Center to foster global collaborations that integrate AI with linguistic studies, promoting innovations in communication technology that honor cultural identities.
Sessions will cover a range of topics, including “Government Strategies for Linguistic Intelligence and Culture” and “Language, Culture, and Identity in the Digital Age”. These discussions will explore the interactions between AI, technology, language, education, and governance, highlighting the technology’s impact across various sectors.
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, remarked on the importance of the conference as a platform for the UAE’s academic, governmental, and business sectors to assess the impact of AI on global communication.
The event is expected to attract around 600 participants, featuring about a dozen panel discussions, 100 presentations, and 20 workshops, showcasing contributions from institutions such as Stanford University, UNESCO, and IBM. While primarily aimed at students, scholars, and industry professionals, the conference will also welcome the public, allowing interested individuals to engage with discussions surrounding the future of language technology and AI.
SICAL is envisioned as an annual gathering that will facilitate networking and exploration of cutting-edge developments in AI and linguistics.
