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Al-Azhar University, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions, is taking a bold step into the future by establishing an independent college dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI). This groundbreaking announcement was made by Dr. Salama Gomaa Dawood, the President of Al-Azhar University, during the opening ceremony of the 10th International Conference of the Faculty of Education for Boys in Cairo. The conference, titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Education System: Aspirations and Risks”, was held under the patronage of Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar.
Dr. Dawood emphasized the university’s commitment to contributing to the rapidly evolving AI field, which has become a cornerstone of global technological advancement. He highlighted the crucial role of AI during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing its use in medical services through robotics as an example of its transformative potential. “The establishment of this college is a strategic step that aligns with global trends, ensuring that Al-Azhar University remains at the forefront of innovation,” Dr. Dawood said.
The Vision Behind Al-Azhar’s Independent AI College
The decision to establish a dedicated AI college aims to address the increasing demand for specialized expertise in artificial intelligence and its applications across various fields. Dr. Dawood noted that this initiative is part of a broader vision to integrate cutting-edge technology into the university’s academic framework.
This announcement comes at a time when AI is revolutionizing industries, from healthcare and education to finance and transportation. By creating a specialized college, Al-Azhar University seeks to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to navigate and shape the future of AI. This endeavor also aligns with Egypt’s national strategy to foster innovation and technological development, ensuring the country remains competitive on the global stage.
To further solidify its commitment to AI, Al-Azhar University has already hosted two major conferences on the subject within a year. The first, organized by the Faculty of Engineering in February 2024, focused on “Modern Engineering Applications and Artificial Intelligence”. These events underscore the university’s proactive approach to exploring the opportunities and challenges posed by AI.
Preserving Knowledge Through Scientific Documentation
In addition to launching the AI college, Dr. Dawood revealed an ambitious plan to document the university’s academic contributions. He directed the university’s Scientific and Cultural Relations Department to compile a comprehensive record of all scientific conferences held at Al-Azhar University, both past and present.
This initiative will result in a bilingual (Arabic and English) publication that catalogs conference topics, research papers, findings, and recommendations. The ultimate goal is to create a digital and physical database that serves as an encyclopedic resource for scholars and researchers worldwide. “This project is not just about preserving history; it is about showcasing Al-Azhar’s intellectual contributions to the world,” Dr. Dawood explained.
The Broader Implications of Al-Azhar’s AI Initiative
The establishment of an independent AI college at Al-Azhar University is a significant milestone in the institution’s history. It reflects a forward-thinking approach that balances tradition with modernity, ensuring that the university continues to play a pivotal role in shaping global educational and technological landscapes.
As AI continues to influence almost every aspect of human life, initiatives like these are essential for preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and thinkers. By investing in AI education, Al-Azhar University is not only contributing to the development of this transformative technology but also solidifying its position as a global hub for academic excellence.
This bold step by Al-Azhar University serves as a call to action for other educational institutions in the region and beyond. It underscores the importance of integrating AI into academic curricula to address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Al-Azhar University’s decision to establish an independent college for artificial intelligence marks a significant leap forward in its mission to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world. By embracing AI, the university is positioning itself as a leader in education and technological innovation, while also contributing to the global discourse on the ethical and practical implications of this powerful technology.
As the world continues to grapple with the opportunities and risks associated with AI, Al-Azhar’s initiative sets an inspiring example of how traditional institutions can adapt and thrive in the modern era. With its rich history and unwavering commitment to progress, Al-Azhar University is poised to become a beacon of innovation in the field of artificial intelligence.
