AIU hosts 'AI or Not?' event to boost its use in higher education

The event took place within the framework of enhancing academic dialogue on the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence in higher education, exploring its potential to support scientific research, innovation, and the development of teaching and learning methods, while emphasizing the importance of leveraging these technologies in a manner that upholds academic integrity and fosters critical thinking and creativity.

The first day featured a program of workshops and specialized sessions addressing the practical and academic aspects of using AI in educational institutions.

Yasmin Bourzoug, Director of Business Channels and Partner Sales at Huawei Technologies, delivered a workshop titled “Make Thinking Visible – Responsible AI in Education.” Meanwhile, Dr. Mohammed Al-Mulla, Professor of Computer Science at the American University in the Emirates (AIU), presented the workshop “AI in Action – The AI Usage Pyramid in Higher Education,” which explored frameworks for AI usage in higher education environments.

The program also included an international online panel discussion in collaboration with Florida State University (FSU), titled “Responsible AI in Education,” featuring a distinguished group of academics and experts: Rabee Rizoug, Director of the Learning Systems Institute at the Office of the Vice President for Research at Florida State University; Dr. Dina Vourtchkina, Associate Dean for Innovation and Educational Technology Enhancement; Dr. Mohammed Al-Mulla; and Dr. Ali Fanjan, Director of AI Applications and Integration at AIU. The session was moderated by Aliya Al-Aziz, Executive Director of Strategic Events and Alumni Affairs at AIU.

Discussions focused on responsibility and transparency in deploying AI in education, and the role of academic institutions in establishing clear practices that ensure the conscious use of these technologies.

On October 8, the university concluded its activities with a workshop titled “The AI Traffic Light System – Responsible & Transparent Use of Generative AI in Higher Education,” presented by Dr. Ali Fanjan. The workshop highlighted practical mechanisms for regulating the use of generative AI in higher education and enhancing transparency in its application within academic activities.

The second day also featured an AI Tools Showcase, allowing participants to explore a range of practical applications and solutions. Additionally, an interactive student activity titled “AIU AI Agent” provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with AI technologies and explore their potential in educational and practical contexts.

The event underscored the importance of building collaborative bridges between academic institutions, experts, and the public and private sectors, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and expertise and keeping pace with the transformations occurring in higher education and the labor market.

The patronage by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences highlighted the importance of supporting initiatives that promote scientific research, innovation, and awareness of emerging technologies and their applications. The collaboration with Florida State University emphasized the international dimension of the event, providing a platform for dialogue and the exchange of perspectives on responsible AI practices in education.

Through this event, AIU reaffirms its commitment to fostering an educational environment that keeps pace with technological advancements, supports innovation, critical thinking, and academic integrity.