AI4All: Training Workshop on Applied AI for Community Development
The AI4All: Training Workshop on Applied AI for Community Development held from July 23-29, 2023, at the Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges Auditorium was a resounding success, fostering knowledge exchange and empowerment in the field of artificial intelligence. The program, spanning six days, featured a comprehensive series of activities, lectures, workshops, and presentations, all aimed at equipping participants with the skills and tools needed to harness AI for community development.
Day 1: July 24, 2023
The workshop commenced with an auspicious Opening Program, including the Invocation and the Philippine National Anthem performed by the CSPC Performing Arts group. Dr. Teresita B. Salazar, Vice-President for Academic Affairs at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, delivered the Welcome Remarks, emphasizing the importance of AI in community advancement. The participants were treated to a vibrant Cultural Presentation by the CSPC Performing Arts team.
The highlight of the day was the Message delivered by Dr. Dulce F. Atian, Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the President at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, inspiring participants with a call to leverage AI for community betterment. Mr. Joseph Jessie S. Oñate, MSc., Project Leader of the AI Research Center for Community Development, introduced the training activities, rules, and primer to set the tone for the coming days.
The afternoon session featured a comprehensive Introduction to Applied AI by Dr. Paul Rossener del Rosario Regonia, an Assistant Professor from the Computer Vision and Machine Intelligence Group at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Dr. Regonia’s insightful presentation laid the foundation for the upcoming topics.
Day 2: July 25, 2023
Mr. Joseph Jessie S. Oñate, MSc., continued the momentum with a deep dive into Machine Learning, enlightening participants on the principles, applications, and significance of this AI subfield. The day progressed with a hands-on Workshop on Machine Learning, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios, solidifying their understanding.
Day 3: July 26, 2023
Dr. Rowel O. Atienza, a distinguished Professor from the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute at the University of the Philippines Diliman, took center stage to explore Deep Learning and its applications. Participants were exposed to cutting-edge advancements and potential applications of this powerful technology. The day continued with an immersive Workshop on Deep Learning Frameworks, offering a platform for participants to experiment with deep learning tools.
Day 4: July 27, 2023
Dr. Ian P. Benitez, Associate Professor III from the College of Computer Studies at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, shared insights into Sensor Data Processing, a vital aspect of AI implementation. Dr. Lany L. Maceda, Associate Prof IV and Director of the Research Development & Management Division at Bicol University, delivered a comprehensive Talk on Proposal Writing, guiding participants on how to effectively communicate their AI-driven ideas for community projects.
Day 5: July 28, 2023
The climax of the workshop was the Launching of the AI Research Center for Community Development, graced by Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This significant event marked a new chapter in the integration of AI for community progress.
The afternoon session delved into Natural Language Processing, led by Ms. Kristine Mae Adlaon, an Assistant Professor and Faculty Researcher at the University of Immaculate Concepcion. Participants gained insights into the manipulation of human language by computers, opening doors to innovative applications.
Day 6: July 29, 2023
The culmination of the workshop featured Proposal Presentations, where participants showcased their ideas for AI-powered community projects. This session demonstrated the practical application of the knowledge gained throughout the workshop. The event concluded with the Closing Program and Awarding Ceremony, with participants receiving Certificates of Participation. Mr. Joseph Jessie S. Oñate, MSc., Project Leader of the AI Research Center for Community Development, delivered Closing Remarks, underscoring the importance of utilizing AI for community growth and development.
The AI4All: Training Workshop on Applied AI for Community Development was an immense success, fostering a dynamic environment for learning, collaboration, and innovation. Participants left with not only enhanced technical skills but also a strong sense of purpose in utilizing AI to make a positive impact on their communities. The program left an indelible mark on all participants, charting a course towards a future where AI and community development intertwine for the greater good.