Beirut Hosts Leading Women in Data Science WIDS at AUB Conference

The American University of Beirut (AUB) recently concluded a successful 8th edition of its Women in Data Science (WiDS) conference, solidifying its position as the largest data science hub in the region.

The conference brought together over 1800 registered attendees, with more than 1,050 attending in person. Held under the theme "Data Science in Humanitarian Crises," the event featured over 25 international, regional, and national speakers offering technical talks, workshops, and insightful panels.

WiDS@AUB aimed to share best practices and the latest advancements in data science, focusing on critical issues like trust in Artificial Intelligence (AI), data privacy, crisis response with data, and using data science to optimize aid, logistics, and healthcare in humanitarian crises.

The event boasted a global audience, with over 900 attending in person and additional participants from 24 countries joining virtually. Among the speakers were prominent female experts from prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, Yale, and the Alan Turing Institute. Leading corporations like IBM, Google, and Intel were also well-represented, along with humanitarian organizations such as the World Food Programme.

AUB President Dr. Fadlo Khuri opened the conference by highlighting the crucial role data science plays in addressing global challenges. He emphasized the potential of data science to create impactful solutions for complex issues like overpopulation, pollution, and war.

Dr. Yusuf Sidani, Dean of AUB's Suliman S. Olayan School of Business, stressed the importance of a human-centric approach to data science. He advocated for using data science for the benefit of all people, not just for profit-driven companies.

Dr. Lama Moussawi, WiDS@AUB Director, underscored the conference's vision of empowering women in data science across the Middle East. She pointed out that WiDS brings together leading female minds who are pushing boundaries and redefining the possibilities within the field.

The conference concluded with a collective message of using data science for collaborative solutions. Participants emphasized the importance of data science in empowering humanitarian responses, optimizing relief efforts, and measuring the impact of data-driven solutions in overcoming crises.

About WiDS@AUB

WiDS@AUB is an independent regional event organized by the Suliman S. Olayan School of Business, which features outstanding Arab and international women making significant contributions to the field. WiDS@AUB is the largest WiDS event globally, and it aims to inspire and educate data scientists worldwide, regardless of gender, and to support women in the field, promoting a higher representation of women in data science in the MENA region. It provides a platform for discussing the latest data science research, business development, and applications; encourages mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration; and connects regional researchers and practitioners with pioneering global data science networks.

For more information, visit the event's website.