The Research and Graduate Studies at Qatar University (QU) organized a distinguished scientific symposium titled “Artificial Intelligence and Humans," in celebration of the release of a special issue of the QU Journal of Research dedicated to highlighting Artificial Intelligence (AI) research at the university. The symposium was attended by a number of academics and students from the university, fostering an interactive atmosphere and encouraging the exchange of perspectives among researchers and attendees from various disciplines.
The symposium opened with remarks by Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, in which he expressed his pride in the research progress achieved by the university in the field of artificial AI and the role of this research in addressing global challenges. He added, “QU has promoted the application of artificial intelligence in learning, research, and innovation. It has adopted AI within its programs and launched initiatives that contribute to enhancing the digital skills of students and researchers while also fostering a culture of artificial intelligence throughout the university community. In this context, the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence Association at the university and the release of a special issue of the QU Journal of Research on artificial intelligence research mark important milestones being celebrated today."
Ms. Noora Al-Fardi, manager and editor of the journal, emphasized the importance of showcasing and strengthening local scientific output through reputable research platforms. She welcomed the audience and provided an overview of the QU Journal of Research, which is published semiannually and features research from various disciplines. She noted that the December issue was dedicated to artificial intelligence as one of the university's research pillars. The issue includes articles and research applications in the fields of environment, health, technology, and the humanities. She also encouraged attendees to contribute to upcoming issues by submitting their research in a simplified and widely accessible language.
The symposium featured a comprehensive panel discussion moderated by Kawthar Barakat, a graduate student in the Doctor of Pharmacy program at QU and president of the AI Association at the university. Participating in the discussion were distinguished researchers who contributed to the special issue:
- Dr. Mohammed Abdulaziz Al-Sada, Director of the KINDI Center for Computing Research and Qatar Mobility Innovations Center (QMIC), QU
- Dr. Saba Qadhi, Dean of General Studies, Office of the Dean of General Studies
- Dr. Fodil Fadli, Associate Professor of Architecture and Urban Design, College of Engineering
- Prof. Noureddine Khadmi, Professor of Jurisprudence and its Fundamentals, College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at QU
- Prof. Walid Qoronfleh, M.D., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States
- Jeham Hilal Al-Kuwari, undergraduate student in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, QU
Their diverse specializations in computing, engineering, medicine, Islamic studies, and the social sciences enriched the multi-dimensional discussion on the interaction between artificial intelligence and humans from technical, environmental, health, and humanitarian perspectives.
The session focused on key research themes that align with QU's strategic priorities, including energy and environment, where discussions explored the role of artificial intelligence in improving energy efficiency and achieving sustainability. The symposium also addressed its applications in the health and biomedical sectors, such as disease diagnosis and enhancing healthcare quality. Discussions further examined the evolution of AI technologies in the field of information and communication technology, along with their impact on the social sciences and humanities—including their influence on education, culture, and society.
The symposium concluded with an interactive Q&A session that allowed attendees to engage directly with the speakers. This was followed by the distribution of the special issue of the journal and a networking break for knowledge exchange.
This symposium reflects QU's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary scientific research and developing innovative solutions to future challenges, supporting sustainable development in Qatar and the region.