The University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) is collaborating with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology to host the inaugural regional workshop for Asia and the Middle East on the charter of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Islamic World in Muscat.
This two-day workshop is taking place amidst the increasing global interest in artificial intelligence and the necessity to regulate its ethical use. It underscores a commitment to advanced executive plans, programs, and strategic initiatives.
The development of the "Charter of Ethics for Artificial Intelligence in the Islamic World" by ISESCO is a result of the organization's resolution at the 43rd session in Morocco in December 2022.
The workshop was inaugurated under the patronage of Dr. Khamis Saif Al Jabri, Chairman of Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit.
Dr. Said Hamad Al Rubai'ee, Vice-Chancellor of UTAS, emphasized, "This regional workshop is a significant step towards fostering dialogue for the implementation of the AI Charter."
He further stated that the workshop will examine successful practices in establishing a robust framework for the ethics and governance of AI in Asia and the Middle East.
Dr. Salim M. Al Malik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), emphasized the significance of the workshop in facilitating the exchange of ideas among experts from ICESCO countries and beyond.
Al Malik mentioned that the workshop marks the inaugural initiative by the “ISESCO Chair for Artificial Intelligence Ethics”, highlighting the organization's commitment to promoting a forward-thinking approach and strategic methods for establishing a framework of ethical principles that govern AI and safeguard the rights and privacy of individuals.
The workshop agenda features panel discussions focusing on regional perspectives and outlooks regarding the utilization of AI in the Asia and Middle East Regions. On Wednesday, 3rd July 2024, participants will present recommendations on AI ethics and governance, and will commence the drafting of the initial document for “The Islamic World Charter on Artificial Intelligence”.
The workshop will convene experts and representatives from specialized information technology and artificial intelligence organizations, as well as stakeholders in new technology, members of civil society institutions, and doctoral students from ISESCO member states in the region.
