Sharjah24: As part of the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) , the Cultural Office of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah presented the Sharjah Cultural Salon titled "To Be Part of the Future of Knowledge." The event featured writer and critic Dr. Mariam Bishak, with poet Shaikha Al-Jabri moderating the discussion. The session emphasized the importance of learning how to maximize the benefits of artificial intelligence and all technological tools to properly build the future.
Dr. Bishak highlighted that while knowledge tools are available in the UAE, awareness of this aspect remains weak among many families. It is crucial to direct students toward these new technical disciplines and to raise parents' awareness of their importance. Modern technologies are accessible in the country, yet many do not fully understand how to use them effectively. For instance, while we purchase the latest smartphones and devices for our children, they often utilize only about 50% of their capabilities, with much of the technology going unnoticed. Currently, many children's interests gravitate towards video games, despite numerous countries utilizing gaming in sports, where children can play and learn simultaneously. It is a mistake to focus solely on the classroom for education; thinking outside the box and developing students' skills through innovative methods that align with rapid technological advancements is essential.
Dr. Bishak spoke about the role of schools in enhancing students' technical skills to ensure they truly become part of the future. She stated, "From my experience with advisory councils in schools, I can confirm that our awareness of this aspect is still limited. There is not a deep understanding of the importance of these councils in discussing and agreeing on decisions that benefit students and keep pace with rapid developments. The traditional approach to decision-making is ineffective in light of today's immense progress."
Dr. Bishak emphasized that the foundation of artificial intelligence is humanity; human intelligence created this technology and is capable of managing and controlling it. AI cannot dominate humans unless allowed to do so. She noted that what we desire today far exceeds what is realistic. For instance, a student seeking the easiest solutions in their educational journey, using applications like ChatGPT, may not fully appreciate the benefits of AI or the significance of technological advancement. We must raise awareness among families and teachers about the need to guide children toward genuinely benefiting from advanced technology to build the future.
Regarding the existing gap between us and artificial intelligence, Dr. Bishak acknowledged its presence but stressed the importance of continuously acquiring knowledge, updating information, and utilizing all available resources provided by the state. Supporting individuals through intellectual development and appropriate training is essential.
The Cultural Office is also participating in several other activities, including a musical performance from the play "Hour of Rationalization," produced by the Family Theater team at the office, aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of conserving energy and water. Additionally, there will be a "Reading Day" workshop at the book fair, presented by Dr. Zakia Al-Sarraf, which aims to foster a love for reading among children through storytelling, specifically a tale titled "A Day at the Book Fair," along with a workshop on making toys from colored paper.
Furthermore, the Cultural Office will host a session titled "The Expatriate Intellectual... and the Challenges of Preserving Cultural Identity," featuring Dr. Star Zuwaini, a professor of linguistics and translation at the American University of Sharjah, with the discussion moderated by writer Salha Obaid.
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