Programme

Joint central day where guests from all study fields will participate in and you will have the opportunity to network. The theme of 2024 is: "Democracy or Democrazy: navigating the impact of AI on society".

This year we are hosting a special edition as starting from January 1st, Belgium holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union for six months. To celebrate this occasion, the city of Mechelen will host a grand cultural and community-oriented city festival. Throughout the day you will notice connections with this grand event.

Tuesday 19 March 2024

Campus De Nayer and campus Mechelen (transport to and from the campus will be arranged by Thomas More)

Timing departure to campus De Nayer depending on your location: check transport arrangements here

11h30 - 12h: Registration at campus De Nayer (K105)

12h - 12h10: Welcome by Sofie Mols, Thomas More Director of Innovation and Internationalisation (K103)

12h 10- 13h20: lunch at campus De Nayer (K105)

13h20 - 14h30: keynote by Pieter van Boheemen. Introduced by Caroline Gennez, Minister of Development Cooperation (K103)

15h30 - 17h30: afternoon activities in Mechelen or De Nayer

18h - 21h: dinner at campus Mechelen (Faydherbe)

Keynote by Pieter van Boheemen:

"Sacrificing democratic values on the altar of AI" casts a critical eye on the governance, or the striking lack thereof, in the AI age of efficiency and excitement. This presentation exposes ethical challenges posed by AI technology, emphasizing that mere good intentions, self-governance, or superficial safety measures are insufficient. Learn how to spot "ethics washing" - the facade of ethical compliance without substantial action. And become warry of “false alarmism” – talks on preposterous existential risks that aim to distract from today’s impact, such as the indecent work conditions in the AI industry, ecological impact, bias, and manipulation. Together we unravel what it truly means to engage with AI responsibly and regain democratic control over AI and future emerging technologies.

• Guests linked to campus Mechelen | campus Antwerpen | campus De Nayer
• Guests linked to campus Geel | campus Turnhout | campus Lier |  campus Vorselaar 
• Thomas More staff