FULafia Social Science Conference Academics Advocate for Human-Centred AI

The 7th National Conference of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) commenced with scholars and researchers examining the growing relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the social sciences.

The conference, themed: “AI and Social Sciences: Governance, Innovation and Inclusive Development,” brought together academics from across the country to discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with emerging AI technologies.

Declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor of FULafia, Prof. Mohammed Isa Kida, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Aleruchi Chuku, described the theme as timely and relevant. 

He said that "AI is increasingly shaping virtually every field of human endeavour," urging participants to leverage the conference to build networks, foster collaborations and generate ideas for future research.

Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. George Genyi, expressed his gratitude to the University Management for its unwavering support towards the successful organisation of the conference.

In his keynote address, Prof. Abba Abubakar Sadeeque of the University of Abuja said that while AI has become an invaluable resource, the social sciences remain essential in humanising the technology, promoting ethical values and ensuring its benefits serve humanity.

Delivering the lead paper, Prof. Gulleng Daskyes highlighted both the immense opportunities and significant challenges posed by AI, stressing that social scientists have a critical role in ensuring its responsible, ethical and inclusive application.