Dar Al-Hekma University in Jeddah has successfully concluded its third conference titled “Creativity, Technology, and Sustainability,” with the endorsement of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. The two-day conference, which took place on May 15-16, attracted a diverse group of professionals, including academics, industry experts, and international dignitaries, to discuss topics that align with the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The president of the university, Dr. Abeer Al-Dughaither, underscored the event’s importance, asserting that it encapsulates the institution’s commitment to foreseeing future scientific and practical developments and maintaining relevance in the evolving landscape of development. She stressed that the triad of creativity, technology, and sustainability is vital to any cultural rebirth.
Dr. Al-Dughaither further noted that the symposium reflects the university’s strategic intent to create scientific and cultural connections with entities both within the Kingdom and globally, with contributions from a spectrum of knowledge and cultural experts.
The symposium shed light on the exemplary practices in technology and cross-disciplinary scientific research, emphasizing the role of these advancements in spurring creativity and addressing worldwide issues.
Conversations during the event also emphasized the pivotal role of cutting-edge technology in sustainable development and the digital revolution, as well as the importance of robust management, policies, and ethics in achieving sustainability targets.
During his keynote address, Prof. Luigi Maffei of the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli in Italy, highlighted the paradigm shift in disciplines related to environmental changes and their impact on human well-being.
He explained that there is a movement towards a positive, multidisciplinary perspective that is more human-centric and sustainable, with a greater focus on individual well-being in design solutions.
Prof. Ahmed Elmasry from Coventry University in the UK spoke about environmental, social, and governance issues, underscoring the necessity for leadership in change and innovation to drive business transformation through technology and sustainability.
Joaquim Alvarez, an expert in cognitive technologies at NEOM, discussed the evolution of urban living and the importance of adapting dynamically to modern challenges in his speech on cognitive cities.
The conference highlighted the crucial role of education in raising sustainability awareness. Panel discussions featured a wide array of experts and officials from various backgrounds, delving into the intertwined aspects of creativity, technology, and sustainability.
These sessions explored research areas that enhance our comprehension of technological advancements and their role in driving innovation and progress.
Additionally, the conference provided workshops designed to foster creativity and develop vital skills needed for sustainable growth.
A special segment presented scientific research papers and posters, including several contributions from Dar Al-Hekma University students, further showcasing the academic community’s engagement with these critical themes.