‘Arabic language and AI. Where to?’ Such was the theme of the 51st session of the Arab Organisation for International Dialogue and Co-operation coinciding with International Mother Language Day.
Hanan Youssef, Professor of International Media and Dean of the Faculty of Media at the Maritime Academy at Smart Village, spoke of the need to keep abreast of the artificial intelligence technologies.
“This prompts us to consider placing our Arabic language as an AI medium,” Youssef said.
“Civil society organisations and the media must address pertinent issues for the benefit of Arab societies with preserving Arab cultural identity of Arab societies,” Youssef added.
It was generally agreed that the richness of the Arabic language is not fully recognised in the realm of AI.
While experts are making efforts to promote the use of Arabic in modern applications, but financial support is vital to this end.
AI technologies should be approached with caution, experts said, pointing out the need for careful controls. They expressed concerns about the potential disruption to society and the economy as new jobs emerge from thanks to AI, they replace traditional occupations.
A set of recommendations based on the session’s outcomes of the meeting is to be drawn up for submission to the relevant authorities to advance the position of the Arabic language in AI technologies.
As for boosting Arabic digital content on the Internet, governmental and non-governmental agencies will have to work together.
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