The 2024-2025 Academic Year has officially begun with James Manyika from Google
The 2024-2025 Academic Year has officially begun with James Manyika, President of Research, Technology & Society at Google, leading a discussion on artificial intelligence and the future of education.
The opening ceremony for the 2024–2025 academic year took place in the Mario Arcelli Aula Magna on the Viale Pola campus, featuring James Manyika, President of Research, Technology & Society at Google. As the guest of honor, he discussed the opportunities and risks of Artificial Intelligence in a dialogue with Father Paolo Benanti, Chair of the AI Commission for Information at the Prime Minister’s Office, moderated by Professor Irene Finocchi, the Rector’s Advisor for Digital Transformation at the University.
Artificial Intelligence for the common good
During the discussion, the need to align technological innovation with social progress, guided by an ethical approach focused on the common good, was addressed. “Students will be essential to ensuring that we maximize the benefits of AI for everyone, everywhere, while addressing its complexities and risks,” said James Manyika.
The Rector, Paolo Boccardelli, spoke about shaping the University of tomorrow with the profound transformations brought about by AI in mind. He stated that “to truly govern AI, higher education has a responsibility to build learning models that adapt machines to people’s abilities and values, leveraging reflective skills and the development of critical thinking, with a strong focus on competencies.”
New projects
During the event, the creation of the “AI4Society” Research Center was also announced. It was presented by the Vice-Rector for AI, Prof. Giuseppe Italiano, with the goal of becoming an international hub for critical and interdisciplinary reflection on Artificial Intelligence. Luiss’s commitment was also underscored by the recent introduction of the “AI Literacy” Certificate, a mandatory badge verifying the digital skills of bachelor’s and master’s graduates, as well as the expanding international educational offering with 360 partner universities in 73 countries and 69 triple and double degree agreements.
Conclusions
“The complexity of a future that is already here demands a new generation of responsible, global leaders who can tackle today's challenges.” This is our university's mission,” concluded President Luigi Gubitosi.
Download the Report by the Rector, Paolo Boccardelli:
Artificial Intelligence for the common good
Watch the full video of the ceremony