British Embassy Honors Visionary Women
The British Embassy in Ireland recently hosted a groundbreaking event, “Information and Misinformation through the Ages: Past, Present and Future,” in Co Kildare, near the historical site where St Brigid established her monastery. This gathering illuminated the contributions of women in the fields of artificial intelligence, science, and technology, seamlessly blending the rich tapestry of the past with the dynamic innovations of the present.
Bridging History and Innovation
A Gathering of Minds
The event brought together esteemed scientists, academics, and policymakers from both Ireland and the UK, creating a platform to celebrate women’s achievements in artificial intelligence. Notable speakers included Dr. Niamh Wycherley from Maynooth University, who shared insights into St Brigid’s legacy and the impact of misinformation and technology on historical research.
Dr. Erin Young of the UK’s Alan Turing Institute addressed diversity and gender gaps in data and AI, while Laura Ellis from the BBC explored technology’s role in shaping our future.
A Tribute to St Brigid
The British Deputy Ambassador to Ireland, Elin Burns, highlighted the significance of the event’s location and timing, coinciding with the 1500th anniversary of St Brigid’s death. Moreover, Burns emphasized the importance of such gatherings in addressing the persistent gender gap in STEM disciplines and celebrated the fusion of historical and contemporary visionaries in the scenic town of Kildare.
Speaking about the event the British Deputy Ambassador to Ireland, Elin Burns said:
Today we are joined by women who are scientists, researchers and policy makers who work in the area of AI across the UK and Ireland. Events such as these, where women can share, connect and celebrate their work are so important as a significant gender gap still persists at all levels of STEM disciplines.
We chose the wonderful location of Kildare to celebrate women and girls in science because of Brigid and the 1500th anniversary of her death. As Ireland’s only female patron saint, and an inspirational leader of her time, we thought it was apt to celebrate a visionary of the past with visionaries of the present.
On the theme of AI; we are in the midst of a technological revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work, and relate to one another. Artificial Intelligence promises to further transform nearly every aspect of our economy and society. The opportunities are transformational – advancing drug discovery, making transport safer and cleaner, improving public services, speeding up and improving diagnosis and treatment of diseases like cancer and much more. To seize the opportunities however, we must manage the risks, which is why the Prime Minister organised the first Global Summit on AI Safety last November.
AI: A Catalyst for Change
Navigating the Technological Revolution
The event highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, emphasizing its role in advancing drug discovery and public services, as well as enhancing diagnostics and treatment for diseases like cancer. The discussions also covered managing AI risks, citing the Prime Minister’s initiative for the inaugural Global Summit on AI Safety.
Voices of Visionaries
Dr. Niamh Wycherley explored challenges in historical research due to biased sources, particularly regarding women’s roles in Irish history. Dr. Erin Young introduced the Women in Data Science and AI project, promoting responsible and inclusive innovation.
Chaired by Dr. Susan Leavy of University College Dublin, the panel discussed ethical, economic, and governance challenges posed by AI.
Sources: THX News & British Embassy Dublin.