For the second time, SnT participated in the Nexus international conference in Luxembourg. The event attracted 7000+ visitors to exchange on the latest developments in Artificial Intelligence. Here are 5 takeaways.
1. Technology innovation and strong partnerships are key
The use of AI raises many challenges. Djamila Aouada noted a similarity between Luxembourg’s current ambition in AI and the earlier decision to create SnT, both representing bold initiatives. “Public-private partnerships matter more in the AI age. They help turn ideas into action faster,” said the Acting Vice Director of SnT during her talk on AI and innovation.
2. AI brings space closer to us – not just physically, but functionally
From GPS to weather forecasting, AI powers and integrates the space tech behind systems that shape everyday life on Earth. As Space Technology Transfer Officer Eduardo Cruz highlighted, participating in the panel, – Space and Defence: Connectivity, Data and Security, – “Space is no longer just the final frontier – it’s essential infrastructure we all use today in our everyday lives.” When a plane reroutes to avoid turbulence for example, it’s using satellite data. When aid teams respond to a natural disaster, they’re guided by real-time satellite imagery.
3. AI is interdisciplinary
“Bringing strategic topics together – notably, data, regulatory aspects, skills, and technology to be cohesive and unique”: that’s the “to-do list” of AI actors all around the globe. In Luxembourg, projects like the AI Factory and the Deep Tech Lab aim to connect these areas. They help place Luxembourg on the global AI map. Djamila Aouada and Carlo Duprel, who heads the Technical Transfer Office, talked about this in the panel discussions.
4. AI is not a threat when we approach it with a curious mind
Both the Luxembourg Prime Minister and the Hereditary Grand Duke offered, “AI is not a threat – we need to approach AI with a curious mind; to upskill, and to leverage AI.” The Hereditary Grand Duke called for all to “keep independent thought” while taking care of human connections – the human “nexus”. With this mindset and approach, AI can help us build a better world – it can help us take care of both the planet’s health through combating climate change, and human health thanks to the latest in health tech.
5. Education and research about AI are keys
Prime Minister Luc Frieden pointed out the need to educate and deepen AI research. Artificial Intelligence is a key element of research at the University of Luxembourg. Multiple AI research projects contribute to SnT’s interdisciplinary approach to research and industry partnerships in cybersecurity, fintech, autonomous systems, and space systems.