University of Sharjah Convenes Global Forum on Computing’s Future

Four days of research and innovation brought together nearly 400 scholars from across the world to examine artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the emerging technologies reshaping society.

The University of Sharjah recently hosted the 23rd International Conference on Computer Systems and Applications, drawing researchers, academics and specialists from 41 countries to examine the frontiers of computing, artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Over four days, the gathering created space for the scholarly exchange that marks the rhythm of academic life, where discovery meets dialogue and theory becomes possibility.

The programme reflected the breadth of contemporary computer science. Researchers presented 77 papers spanning intelligent systems and their applications, cybersecurity and privacy, emerging networks of the 6G era, data science and machine learning, natural language processing, quantum computing, cloud and distributed systems, blockchain technologies and digital twins. Sessions also explored sustainable computing and the deployment of digital tools across sectors from healthcare to education to commerce.

Keynote addresses brought particular depth to the proceedings. Prof. Ernesto Damiani examined recent advances in intelligent systems, cybersecurity, big data analytics and privacy protection, while Dr. Basel Soudan explored how intelligent robots and drones serve rescue operations during disasters. These presentations grounded the conference’s theoretical work in urgent, practical necessity.

Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies at the University, situated the conference within the institution’s 2030 strategy, which prioritises digital transformation and the cultivation of research expertise. He stressed the importance of developing artificial intelligence and intelligent systems according to standards that ensure security, privacy and reliability. Beyond academic rigour, he noted, universities bear responsibility for translating research findings into solutions that advance sustainable development and knowledge-based economies.

Prof. Mohammed Adel Serhani, Acting Dean of the College of Computing and Informatics, called for the kind of interdisciplinary and international partnerships that turn scientific innovation into service. The accelerating role of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing and emerging technologies in reshaping societies and economies, he observed, demands collaboration across universities, research institutions and industry. Such cooperation addresses the complex challenges surrounding information security, privacy and the responsible deployment of technology.

The conference represented more than an academic exercise. It embodied the scholarly dialogue essential to responsible innovation, bringing together minds from across the globe to consider not simply what technology can do, but how it ought to serve human flourishing and societal progress. In this sense, it reflected broader endeavours across the Emirates to position the nation as a centre for advanced research and technological thought.

The University of Sharjah, working in cooperation with the Association for Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, also hosted a competition showcasing research and graduation projects from students in the College of Computing and Informatics, creating opportunity for emerging scholars to present their work alongside established researchers.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The gathering underscores the Emirate’s role in fostering rigorous academic inquiry and technological advancement. By hosting such a significant international conference, the University of Sharjah demonstrates the region’s commitment to excellence in research and innovation. The broad range of topics covered, from quantum computing to sustainable technologies, reflects global academic priorities that align with the nation’s strategic focus on positioning itself as a knowledge and innovation hub.

The presence of nearly 400 scholars from across the world engages the Emirate in the international scientific community, building networks and partnerships that support the UAE’s broader vision for digital transformation and a knowledge-based economy. As the University elaborates in its entrepreneurship initiatives and student venture programmes, the translation of academic research into practical innovation drives economic contribution and social benefit.

Source: WAM

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