Highlight of the "Al-Khawarizmi Tour": A Captivating Scientific Conference
The scientific conference given yesterday by Professor Jack Dongarra, winner of the 2022 ACM Turing Award, considered the "Nobel Prize of Computer Science," captivated the attention of an audience composed of young students, all of whom were eager to hear his words. A mathematician by training, the American researcher has specialized in linear algebra algorithms and parallel computing tools. The Turing Award was given to him to reward his major contributions in the field of software for supercomputers. His presence in Tunis was a significant event for the Tunisian scientific community. We met with him on the sidelines of the event, and he granted us an interview.
A First Visit to Tunisia
This is your first time in Tunisia. How did you find the exchanges with young Tunisian students and engineers? I have been here for less than 24 hours, and I find the exchanges very stimulating. The discussions we had were enriching. It's always nice to see so many young people and exchange with them. For me, it's a great opportunity to interact with so many people.
The Current State of AI
You specialize in the field of AI. How would you describe its current level of advancement? Can we expect an improvement in its performance in the coming years? Oh, AI is still in its infancy, and it is of considerable importance in everything we do. It will progress spectacularly in the years to come. We will learn more about algorithms, how to improve them, and how to use our computing technologies effectively. Its impact will be immense. It will have more influence than the internet has had, and it will affect each of us in a very positive way.
The Future of Generative AI
Is this also the case for generative AI? Absolutely. Progress can only go in one direction: upwards. It's very promising.
Reducing the Gap in AI Research
Do you think we can reduce the gap that exists between countries in the field of AI? We must cooperate. In scientific research, there are no borders. We communicate, discuss, and collaborate with people from all over the world. That's what I do. And through these interactions, I learn a great deal, and others learn from me as well. It's an excellent way to capitalize on existing knowledge.
The Importance of Collaboration
It's very positive. We must create networks, talk to people, conduct research, and contribute to the scientific community. Develop new ideas, promote them, defend them. Be well-trained, understand the field, and work with others.
The Need for AI Regulation
Do you think AI should be regulated? Absolutely. There must be limits to everything. It's a technology, and like any technology, it can be used for positive or negative purposes. We must therefore be aware of the risks and put in place safeguards to prevent them.
A Message to Young Tunisians
What is your message to young Tunisians interested in this sector? I think there are four principles that I recommend to students. First, follow your passion. Find what really motivates you and pursue it. Don't work on something that doesn't passion you, because you won't excel in it. Second, aim high. Don't be content with ease. Choose challenges that you are capable of overcoming. Third, prepare yourself for failure: it's part of the research process. Failure is part of the process; it allows us to learn and overcome identified limits. Finally, develop your network, talk to others, exchange. This will help you overcome certain difficulties, and you will be able to help other people in turn.
