QU President Dr. Omar Al Ansari at the opening ceremony for the Future Tech Forum.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar University’s (QU) Kindi Center for Computing Research (KINDI), under the College of Engineering, and the Artificial Intelligence Organization have launched first edition of the Future Tech Forum.
The event features an array of workshops, seminars, and panel discussions, all geared towards presenting practical applications and solutions in the ever-evolving domains of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
The Future Tech Forum is a pioneering initiative that aligns with the vision outlined in the National Cybersecurity Strategy and the Artificial Intelligence Strategy, offering a roadmap for the future.
QU, through the forum, is committed to advancing cybersecurity within Qatar and cultivating cutting-edge artificial intelligence solutions in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.
The event is sponsored by the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) and Vodafone in the Platinum category, Qatar Aluminum and QNB in the Gold category, Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) in the Bronze category, with media sponsors Taswar and Social Jet, and Fotad Company as a Contributing Sponsor.
QU President Dr. Omar Al Ansari emphasised the forum’s significance, stating: “This forum underscores the dynamic synergy that thrives within the Qatar University community. The Future Tech Forum stands as a remarkable fusion of enterprising student initiatives and the dedicated efforts of our academic and administrative teams. This synergy not only reflects our commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration but also underscores the transformative power of youth-driven endeavours in advancing the frontiers of knowledge and technology.
"It underscores the pivotal role students play in driving innovation, aligning with Qatar University’s vision of empowering its students.”
Khalid Al Hashemi, Director of the National Cyber Empowerment and Excellence Affairs at NCSA, addressed the growing importance of cybersecurity in the age of advancing technology and artificial intelligence. He emphasised the role of research institutions in confronting evolving cyber threats and the necessity of collaboration to address pressing issues in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Mohamed Mohsin Alyafei, Head of Public Sector at Vodafone, said: “Today’s technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and at the heart of this development comes artificial intelligence as a transformative force that contributes significantly to shape our future.
“Artificial intelligence is no longer just a theoretical concept, but rather has become a strategic necessity because it provides endless opportunities, not only for companies but also for individuals.”
Dr. Abdulaziz Al Ali, Director of Kindi Center for Computing Research and Advisor of the Artificial Intelligence Organization, highlighted the profound impact of artificial intelligence on various fields and its potential to redefine future jobs and standards.
The forum aims to fulfil research objectives in the areas of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity through collaboration with government agencies and local and international private companies.
He said: “The Future Tech Forum sets the stage for a vibrant culture of collaborative efforts, demonstrating the power of initiatives led by Qatar University’s students and its vision of empowering future leaders in technology and innovation. As we embark on this transformative journey, we look forward to shaping the digital future of the country through partnerships, knowledge exchange, and collective efforts in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.”
The Artificial Intelligence Organization is a student-led organisation that aims to spread awareness about artificial intelligence and its importance in modern societies, through events, workshops and seminars, hosted by experts in the field.
The KINDI Center facilitates and supports Computer and Information Science and Engineering research at QU by capitalising on the existing critical mass of research work in this important field and by leveraging existing local and international partnerships.
