AI a Tool for Societal Good But it’s a Must to Address Potential Dangers, Say Experts

M Ashraf Siddiqui

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12/12/2024

Technology

Doha,12 Dec. 2024

By Ashraf Siddiqui

Doha

The need to regulate AI to prevent its misuse amid the explosive adoption of the technology across a swathe of activities including business transformation, were among the issues flagged by experts who lauded Qatar’s initiative to host the two-day World Summit AI Qatar, which concluded on Wednesday.

Speaking to Qatar Tribune on the sidelines of the event, Sarah Porter, CEO of Inspired Mind, emphasised the summit’s dual focus: showcasing global Al developments alongside regional advancements, particularly Qatar’s initiatives in medicine, health care, and broader societal benefits.

Highlighting international collaboration, Porter cited sessions like those with the US Homeland Security discussing AI policies and regulations. The summit’s vision, Porter noted, is to promote AI as a tool for societal good while addressing its potential dangers

She stressed the importance of regulating AI to prevent misuse, such as to spread misinformation or to pose cybersecurity threats. A global consensus on policies and collaboration among nations, she said, are critical challenges in the next 2-5 years.

Porter also highlighted AI’s positive impacts. She underscored the importance of staying updated on AI advancements to harness its potential responsibly. Inspired Minds plans to remain committed to Qatar for the next five years, focusing on how AI can optimize and redesign society for an abundant future.

She concluded by advocating for heightened awareness of AI’s benefits, noting breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces and medical applications, which hold the promise of tangible advancements in human capabilities. Balancing innovation with ethical safeguards, she argued, is key to leveraging AI for humanity’s greater good.

Soubhi Chebib, general manager of GBM Qatar, lauded Doha’s hosting of the World Summit AI Arabic, a first in the MENA region, during an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune.

The two-day summit, inaugurated by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, drew ministers, senior officials, IT professionals and experts to discuss AI’s transformative potential.

Chebib highlighted AI’s pivotal role in business transformation, emphasizing the significance of initiatives like Fanar, which leverages Arabic language and culture while addressing ethical dimensions.

He stressed that AI, now advancing faster than expected, demands businesses to rethink operations for digital efficiency and competitiveness.

He also noted the importance of bridging digital gaps and implementing governance frameworks to safeguard against misinformation and identity theft. Though IBM’s WatsonX, GBM aids enterprises in developing tailored AI solutions, enabling smarter operations and revenue growth.

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