Key Takeaways
- Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed attended a session on smart cities at the International Government Communication Forum in Sharjah.
- Experts emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and artificial intelligence in developing sustainable cities.
- Call for open data platforms and innovative technologies to enhance food security and meet community needs.
Discussion on Smart and Sustainable Cities
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, participated in a session titled “How to Transition into Smart and Sustainable Cities” during the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) in Sharjah. This session, organized in collaboration with Invest Bank, included experts such as Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Sherif Tawfik from Microsoft, Gary Burniske of the Purdue Center for Global Food Security, and student Ryan Bousleimi, an International Olympiad winner in Artificial Intelligence.
Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi highlighted that the development of smart cities relies on strong public-private partnerships. He explained that while governments set the vision, the innovative contributions from the private sector are essential. Emphasizing the need for data availability and cooperative efforts among organizations, he noted that individual or delayed initiatives thwart progress.
Sherif Tawfik remarked on the transition into an era dominated by artificial intelligence, following previous industrial revolutions. He pointed out that while tech changes can disrupt job markets, the emphasis should be on the creation of higher-quality jobs. Tawfik also addressed the dire effects of climate change, especially on food security, advocating the use of AI to decrease energy usage in food production, alongside Microsoft’s commitment to achieving zero waste.
Burniske focused on how AI can bolster local food production and stabilize supply chains, particularly in light of challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the necessity of resilient infrastructure, advanced smart platforms, and the integration of modern technologies in urban systems to address evolving global issues.
Student Ryan Bousleimi urged the establishment of an open data platform to support sustainability efforts. He advocated for the application of simulation models in infrastructure development, proposing that smaller challenges should be tackled sequentially through data analysis. Additionally, he stressed the need for improved agricultural practices, conservation of water resources, and cutting food waste to enhance food security.
Experts reiterated that successful sustainable city initiatives hinge on collaboration between government entities and corporations, focusing on expanding the use of AI technologies to deliver efficient services and enhance energy management. The key figures in attendance included various local officials and media representatives, unified in the vision for sustainable urban development.
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