HKBU conference explores AI's impact on society

Ayra Wang

Scholars and experts from around the globe have gathered at the Hong Kong Palace Museum to examine artificial intelligence through humanistic and societal lenses at the 2nd International Symposium on Humanities and Culture: Visions of a Digital Future.

The two-day event, hosted by Hong Kong Baptist University, kicked off yesterday, featuring panels on AI's ethical implications, digital inclusivity, and its role in education and creativity. Key themes include humanities' guidance of technology, marginalized voices in AI development, and interdisciplinary approaches to digital futures.

The first day of the event explored "The Place of Humanities in Digital Futures" - emphasizing how human values can shape AI - and "Neglected Voices and AI Challenges," which addressed bias and inclusivity.

Today's activities will examine "AI and Transdisciplinarity" - analyzing AI's intersections with linguistics and cultural studies - and "Human Mind in Future Education," an assessment of AI's cognitive impact.

Key speakers include HKPM director Louis Ng Chi-wa, Chinese Institute of Hong Kong president Huang Ping, and experts from noted institutions such as Yale University and Harvard University.

Paul Poon Wai-yin, deputy chairman of HKBU's Council and Court, underscored the symposium's role in fostering global dialogue at yesterday's opening ceremony, saying the event "offers a unique opportunity to engage with international scholars who bring diverse insights."

HKBU president Alexander Wai Ping-kong stressed the need to equip students with AI skills amid rapid industry advancements while provost Martin Wong Ding-fat highlighted the university's commitment to humanistic technology development.

Winsome Chow Wai-sum, chief executive of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council, praised HKBU's transdisciplinary integration at the event.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com