Inaugural Address

Inaugural event of the UNESCO Chair on AI & Data Science for Society

What an inspiring afternoon it was! During the UNESCO conference on November 10, we dived into the world of the UNESCO chair, data science and AI together with various renowned (international) speakers. Lampros Stergioulas, lecturer in Data Science, also gave his inaugural speech in which he shared his vision on the mission and goals of the UNESCO chair for AI & Data Science.

Videos of the event

Dr. Elisabeth Minnemann: Navigating the Human Dimension of AI

Dr. Elisabeth Minnemann, chairman of The Executive Board of The Hague University of Applied Sciences, provides insights into the significance of artificial intelligence and data science. In her UNESCO conference speech, she stresses the role of applied sciences universities in addressing AI’s societal impacts. Drawing on her background in change management, she discusses The Hague University of Applied Sciences’ contributions to AI and its societal benefits. Her speech delves into the synergy between research, education, and practical applications in the realm of AI.

Dr. Tawfik Jelassi: The Ethical and Open Pathways of AI in Society

Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information at UNESCO, discusses the ethical implications of data use in artificial intelligence. He emphasizes the evolution of data collection, the importance of big data, and the recent UNESCO guidelines on AI ethics and open science. Dr. Jelassi praises Professor Lampros Stergioulas’ contributions and highlights the role of the UNESCO Chair at The Hague Technical University in promoting ethical AI practices. His speech underscores the value of international cooperation in navigating the AI landscape responsibly.

Dr. Kathleen Ferrier: Navigating the Ethical Landscape of AI

Dr. Kathleen Ferrier, Chairperson of the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO, delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on global societies. In her speech, she highlights both the groundbreaking benefits and potential pitfalls of AI, emphasizing the need for an ethical framework that upholds human rights. Dr. Ferrier discusses UNESCO’s recent recommendation on the ethics of artificial intelligence and applauds The Hague University of Applied Sciences for its pioneering role in AI education and its commitment to the UN’s sustainable development goals. As she speaks, she underscores the significance of human-centric, transparent, and responsible AI practices. Her message is a clarion call for collaboration and innovation in AI to work towards a better, sustainable future.

Prof. Lampros Stergioulas: Shaping the Future with Ethical and Open AI

Prof. Lampros Stergioulas, the UNESCO Chair of Data Science and AI for the EU and Professor of Data Science at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, shares his insights into the vast potential of artificial intelligence and its implications on society. Drawing attention to the transformative capabilities of AI, Prof. Stergioulas emphasizes the importance of human-centric and ethical applications. He dives deep into the definitions, applications, and intricacies of AI and data science, highlighting their influence in sectors like healthcare. Reflecting on the challenges posed by AI, such as data biases and misinformation, he underscores the urgent need for open data and ethical frameworks. Prof. Stergioulas elaborates on the significant strides made by UNESCO in establishing guidelines and standards for ethical AI. He invites collaboration and partnership in furthering the vision of sustainable and responsible AI that aligns with the UN’s sustainable development goals. Concluding his talk, he expresses gratitude to his colleagues, partners, and family for their unwavering support in his endeavors.

Panel discussions

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