Isuru Fernando, IBM
Artificial Intelligence is changing the way that businesses operate and the future direction of the workforce – and it’s something that our students want to know more about! And on 7 May, one of IBM’s AI experts will be holding an open lecture at Unitec focusing on real-world applications for AI that we can apply to our teaching.
What is AI?
Artificial intelligence no longer just applies to computer science – it is used by businesses all around the world and is on the agenda of both technology and business executives right here in New Zealand. AI platforms like IBM Watson understand the world in the way humans do – through senses, learning and experience. They learn at scale, gaining knowledge over time, reasoning with purpose and interacting with humans in a natural way.
Computer Science Acting HoPP Dila Beisembayeva is organising the lecture and is encouraging staff to come along to find out more. She says: “The rapid development of AI technologies presents major opportunities and challenges for our country: from applying AI technologies to our agriculture, government, manufacturing and service industries to holding a meaningful national debate on the broader implications for society.
“Unitec as a tertiary provider could play a role to ensure that our students are well equipped for the future and will not be affected by the disruption AI creates. Using IBM’s existing and growing capabilities in the AI space, as well as our strong established connections, we have got a golden opportunity to make the first step in that direction .”
The event
Come and listen to Isuru Fernando, IBM New Zealand’s Leader in Artificial Intelligence illustrate how computers can augment human intelligence and how AI is fundamentally changing businesses and communities. Isuru has extensive experience working with leading organisations on technology and economic disruption and will share examples of real world applications of AI on projects he has worked on.
Unitec has a partnership with IBM that gives us access to a number of IBM technologies and this lecture will help us understand how to use those more effectively.
The lecture is open to all staff and students.
When: 7 May, 16.30 – 17.30
Where: Gold Lecture Theatre