Overview of the Confest

From March 1 to March 3, 2024, Alliance University effectively orchestrated the AI & Society Alliance Confest 2024, organized by the Alliance School of Liberal Arts, which aimed at exploring the implications of AI for life and society through the lens of multiple disciplines by bringing together academics and practitioners.

The three-day-long fest was filled with conversations, ideations, brainstorming sessions, interactive AI installations, and Jugalbandi—an AI-driven musical concert held at the Alliance University central campus and the Bangalore International Centre.

The core team—comprising Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership; Dr. Ravi Chakrobarty, Director of Communication for Liberal Arts; and Dr. Sayan Dey, Assistant Professor, at Alliance University—led the event, while Dr. Ray Titus, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Incubation and Innovation) and Dean of Alliance School of Business, moderated the event, and Dr. Michiel Baas from the Max Planck Institute curated it.

Exploring AI Beyond Traditional Paradigms

Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro-Chancellor of Alliance University, emphasized the significance of AI's integration with human values and societal needs. The confest's overarching theme, ‘AI & Society’ resonated throughout the discussions, emphasizing AI's potential to transform lives and enhance societal well-being.

Eminent Guests Enrich Conversations

The confest welcomed prominent figures, including Prof. (Dr.) T. G. Sitharam, Chairman, All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and many others from various fields. Their insights further developed the discourse, highlighting AI's potential across diverse domains, from education to creative endeavors.

Panel Discussions Illuminate Varied Perspectives

Throughout the event, intriguing panel discussions explored multifaceted aspects of AI's impact on society. Notable sessions included 'The State and Future of AI Governance,' 'AI and Media,' and 'AI and Psychology,' where experts engaged in lively discussions moderated by the faculty members.

Concluding with Insightful Dialogues and Artistic Exhibitions

The confest reached its finale at the Bangalore International Centre (BIC). Engaging discussions on topics such as 'AI and the Future of Governance' and 'AI and Culture' engaged the audience, along with interactive AI art installations that covered vital themes such as environment, literature, and music. The exhibits ranged from graphic novels to immersive artsworks, highlighting how AI is changing art.

Future Prospects

As the AI & Society Alliance Confest 2024 ended, Alliance University reaffirmed its commitment to encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation at the confluence of AI and society. Together, let us continue to cultivate a collaborative environment where technology and innovation thrive, driving meaningful impact and progress.