BACKGROUND
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming educational landscapes around the world, challenging the traditional roles of universities and introducing innovative approaches to learning, research and management. As an institution committed to academic excellence and innovation, the Universidade Pedagógica de Maputo (UP-Maputo) seeks to explore how AI can drive university transformations, improve teaching and learning outcomes, and enhance institutional efficiency.
This international conference will bring together experts, academics, policymakers and practitioners to discuss emerging trends in AI and their implications for higher education. It will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration and training.
OBJECTIVES
The conference aims to:
1
Explore the impact of AI on higher education institutions, focusing on teaching and learning, research, and outreach/innovation.
2
Assess how AI can drive transformations in universities, optimizing governance, management and operational efficiency processes to promote a more innovative and responsive academic environment.
3
Foster international collaboration between higher education institutions (HEIs) and diverse stakeholders to jointly address the challenges and opportunities that AI presents, aiming at the creation of innovative and sustainable solutions.
4
Gather contributions and suggestions for the formulation of an AI policy for the University, considering various tools and platforms, including ChatGPT and DeepSeek
5
Present case studies, projects, and best practices that highlight the applications of AI in academic contexts and general education.
THEMATIC AXES
AI-Driven Pedagogy: Adapting Teaching Methodologies to Leverage AI Technologies.
AI Research and Academic Innovation: Advancing academic research through AI tools and platforms.
Smart university governance, management and policy: Improving decision-making processes with AI analytics.
Ethical Challenges, Inclusion and Sustainability in AI: Addressing ethical considerations, inclusion and the digital divide.
Strengthening AI Capabilities: Preparing Staff, Students, and Administrators for an AI-Driven Future.
Partnerships and Collaborations: Creating Synergies between Academia, Industry and Policymakers.
AI and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning AI innovations with global sustainability agendas.
Trans/posthumanism and education.
AI and accessibility: Using AI-based assistive technologies to support students with special educational needs, ensuring a more inclusive learning environment.
TARGET AUDIENCE
Academics and researchers in AI and education.
University leaders, administrators, and policymakers.
Industry representatives specializing in AI solutions for education.
International organizations and development partners.
Graduate students and emerging scholars.
FORMAT
The conference format will be hybrid, allowing for both in-person and online participation to meet the different needs and preferences of participants.
The conference will include:
1. Plenary sessions: Presented by leading experts in AI and education.
2. Panel discussions: Focused on specific topics with diverse perspectives.
3. Workshops and training sessions: Hands-on, skills-building activities focusing on the use of AI tools and applications to support teaching.
4. Paper presentations: Presenting innovative research and case studies.
5. Networking sessions: Facilitating collaboration and partnerships among participants.
6. Exhibitions: Presenting AI tools, technologies, and projects relevant to higher education.