U7+: University Leaders from around the World Discuss Approaches to Artificial Intelligence
University leaders from 16 countries participated in the U7+ University Alliance Summit at the University of Ottawa in Canada. In their joint statement entitled “The Role of Universities in the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence”, they called on the governments of the G7 countries to work together to further develop artificial intelligence in a way that allows societies around the world to benefit from its potential.
According to the joint statement by the U7+ Alliance, “governments are faced with a seismic shift in employment patterns and skill requirements across all sectors due to the integration of AI into the workplace. This will continue to raise challenges for governments to ensure there are fair opportunities for all, as well as a high quality of life and well-being.” “Universities are key contributors to the successful digital transformation of all sectors of the economy and in the wider society. Universities are the main actors in preparing a highly skilled workforce, and in driving innovative solutions based on research. In the face of the rapid advancement of AI-driven technology, universities, as independent actors guided by research, education, and service to our communities, can support governments to navigate this radical change and increasingly uncertain political context. Universities have large, multidisciplinary, networks of experts who can provide valuable insights for policymakers in all aspects of AI: the technology itself, its socio-economic embedding and impact, as well its governance,” the statement continues.
In the statement, the members of U7+ formulate three recommendations for the G7 governments:
- Work with U7+ to create an interdisciplinary network of U7+ scholars and policy makers: This advisory body will leverage the knowledge of leading universities from across the globe to support policymakers to establish AI governance and support them in applying AI.
- Support the creation of an AI research and governance interface tool to share credible and rigorous resources for AI research and governance: This portal will address the current fragmentation of initiatives by providing a single point of access and verification for public authorities. It will ensure that decision-makers have access to the latest research-based knowledge on the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI.
- Create funding support for inclusive innovation through strengthened North–South collaboration on AI training, knowledge transfer, shared platforms, and the development of novel technologies.
In addition, the members of the alliance committed themselves to update and upgrade training pathways for all their students, not only those engaged in AI development, to sharing best practices among themselves, and to advising governments, for example on the development of legal frameworks and the training of civil servants.
The presidents of 40 U7+ universities signed the communiqué, which was presented on 22 April to the Canadian government, host of this year's G7 summit.
President Prof. Dr. Thomas Fetzer represented the University of Mannheim at the meeting in Canada. “Artificial intelligence offers great opportunities to quickly and effectively address global challenges in areas such as education, energy transition, democratic participation, and the future of work,” said Fetzer about the statement he signed on behalf of the University of Mannheim. “However, the dangers posed by the unregulated development or ill-informed use of artificial intelligence are already becoming apparent. Universities can use their expertise to support policymakers and empower young people to use these new tools safely and responsibly.”
The members of the university alliance used the meeting in Ottawa for a comprehensive exchange of views. They concluded by emphasizing the importance of academic freedom, international exchange, and multilateralism. “In current times, these values cannot be taken for granted,” said Fetzer, adding: “It is an important task of universities to stand up for these values, to set an example, and to demand that they be preserved. At the same time, we also have a social responsibility to continually prove the value and significance of science for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.”
About the U7+ Alliance
The U7+ Alliance is an international coalition of 54 universities, primarily from the G7 member states, which aims to make a scientific contribution to solving the major social and political issues of our time. The members of the alliance meet annually to establish a joint agenda and identify key areas for coordinated action. Together, the presidents of the U7+ universities commit on behalf of their institutions to concrete actions to address the world's most pressing challenges at the local, regional, and global levels.
General information about the U7+ Alliance and statements from previous years: https://www.uni-mannheim.de/en/about/international/u7/