The Virtual University of Côte d'Ivoire (UVCI), the Thematic Research Program of CAMES Information and Communication Technology (PTR ICT), and the Permanent Delegation of Côte d'Ivoire to UNESCO in Paris, in collaboration with the UNESCO Chair in Bioethics at Alassane OUATTARA University in Bouaké, the Ivorian National Commission for UNESCO, and the Memory of the World Knowledge Center of Côte d'Ivoire, are organizing an international scientific conference on the theme: Artificial Intelligence and Metaverse: Technical, Ethical, and Societal Implications in Hybrid Mode (In-person and Online), from June 29 to June 30, 2023.
This major scientific event aims to bring together decision-makers, academics, and industry and documentation professionals to share their experiences and expertise on the potential and new opportunities for research and development offered by artificial intelligence (AI) and the Metaverse.
In recent years, AI has been a rapidly evolving research field, bringing significant advancements in all areas of life. Indeed, AI is fundamentally transforming the creative economy in all its dimensions - political, cultural, informational, societal, and economic. Our lives are increasingly governed by the diversity of technical applications associated with AI. The transformations induced by AI come with opportunities for the economy (creative industries, e-commerce). However, artificial intelligence also poses numerous challenges to private and public actors and society in general (monetization of artistic works, ambiguity regarding product and service classifications in trade agreements, intellectual property rights). AI also raises questions of identity and fundamental freedoms, such as equality and equity. It is therefore essential to give meaning to these applications, in other words, to "ensure that the development of these technologies does not contribute to increasing social and economic inequalities, and to leverage AI to effectively reduce them."
The Metaverse, heavily relying on artificial intelligence, appears here as a space where identities intersect, cultures collaborate, and cultural works are created. The combination of artificial intelligence and 3D fabrication raises the question of reproducing works of art and preserving heritage. Indeed, the question of heritage in the era of artificial intelligence leads to exploring the various transformations driven by digital technologies in the management of written heritage, libraries, as well as those introduced by AI, an excellent digital tool for promoting cultural heritage. AI enables virtual access to information and documentation services by accelerating the improvement of digitization processes, data analysis, processing, and visualization, which require new skills among information professionals.
This international scientific conference will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas on current trends, best practices, and future opportunities for AI and the Metaverse in research, strategy, and policy development. Specifically, it aims to:
1. Discuss recent developments and current trends in the fields of AI and the Metaverse.
2. Examine the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of AI and Metaverse technologies.
3. Evaluate practices, tools, and changes in terms of data management, services, and preservation of cultural and documentary heritage.
4. Explore the potential impacts of AI and the Metaverse on society, privacy, ethics, and law.
5. Provide a platform for knowledge and idea exchange among researchers, academics, and industry professionals.
The international scientific symposium will be open to a wide audience, including teachers, researchers, students, industry and documentation . Internationally renowned speakers in AI and Metaverse will take part.