Politecnico gathers with European Universities in Brussels to discuss the future of AI
On November 27, a delegation from Politecnico joined the European event “Propelling Europe's AI Revolution: the role and impact of universities,” a meeting gathering leaders from the UnILiON network member universities. The informal network brings together the offices of over 160 European universities in Brussels, European policy makers from the DG Connect of the European Commission, plus other stakeholders in the sector. During the event, the delegations discussed the challenges and opportunities related to the development of Artificial Intelligence in Europe and the crucial role that universities can play in this context.
The meeting addressed a wide range of issues, with a particular focus on the role of universities in the evolution of AI. Among the main topics discussed was how AI can be managed responsibly and safely, becoming a positive force for society. The discussion also examined European policies related to AI, in particular the implementation of the Artificial Intelligence Act, the creation of the European AI Office, and initiatives such as AI Factories, all aimed at strengthening the European Union's competitive position in the technology sector.
One of the highlights of the event was the discussion on how universities are addressing rapid changes in AI, both from an educational perspective and in terms of research into new technological solutions. Politecnico's Deputy Rector, Elena Baralis, explained how to best use AI in everyday work within universities: “We should identify the different levels of expertise that need to be achieved by teachers, students, and administrative staff. We should try to understand what level of knowledge people need to have, so to leverage their skills.” It was also highlighted that the European Commission could facilitate the introduction of AI in research by enabling the creation of networks for the development and testing of new models, as well as regulations that allow for greater data sharing, leading to free and shared research.
Discussions revealed that initiatives promoting constant dialogue and close collaboration between science, industry, and public policy will be essential to achieving Europe's ambitious AI goals and ensuring that AI can serve as a driver of progress in support of technological innovation.
In this regard, the Vice-Rector for Local, National and European Affairs Mariachiara Zanetti, who participated in the meeting, emphasized: ‘Politecnico's hub in Brussels contributed greatly to the organization of this valuable opportunity for discussion, which represented a fruitful opportunity to interact with other leaders in the sector and contribute to the European debate on AI, consolidating the role of universities as key players in the development of ethical and innovative technological solutions for the future’.
Before the event, a reserved meeting of AI experts from across Europe was held, with Professor Marco Mellia representing Politecnico as a member of the scientific committee of the Interdepartmental Center SmartData@PoliTO - Big Data and Data Science Laboratory. During the meeting, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the development of AI was emphasized in order to address global challenges in a coordinated manner.inato le sfide globali.
