SOSCON PH 2024: Weaving Tomorrow’s Techscape

 

 Acar, Lara Jane, Y.

CS Seminars and Educational Trips

BSCS 4A

SOSCON PH 2024: Weaving Tomorrow's Techscape

(Reflection Blog)

            On October 12, 2024, I attended the "SOSCON PH: Weaving Tomorrow's Techscape" at Novotel Manila, Araneta City. The event was organized by the Samsung Research and Development Institute Philippines and brought together industry leaders, innovators, and technology enthusiasts. It served as a platform for exploring the future of tech innovations and trends, fostering discussions on the latest advancements and how they are shaping the digital landscape of tomorrow.

            I have learned about Open Source Software (OSS) and its role as a core technology during the event. OSS fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing developers to contribute to and improve software collectively. It plays a significant role in shaping the tech industry, as it promotes transparency, flexibility, and rapid development of new technologies. 

         The discussion highlighted how OSS encourages innovation, reduces costs, and allows for greater flexibility in software development. It also emphasized how the open-source community collaborates to continuously improve and adapt technology, making it more accessible to users. The session also delved into the OSS journey, showcasing how it has evolved over time, from its early beginnings to becoming a core element of modern tech ecosystems. This journey has enabled OSS to shape groundbreaking projects, driving both innovation and collaboration in the tech landscape.

        AI ethics was also discussed during the event, highlighting the importance of responsible and ethical practices in artificial intelligence development. I have learned that I ethics encompasses a set of principles aimed at ensuring the responsible and fair development of artificial intelligence technologies. Key aspects include transparency, which emphasizes the need for clarity about how AI systems operate and make decisions. Accountability is crucial, requiring clear lines of responsibility for the outcomes of AI implementations, particularly in sensitive areas like healthcare and law enforcement. Fairness and bias prevention are also critical, ensuring that AI systems do not perpetuate existing inequalities. Additionally, privacy and data protection must be prioritized to safeguard users’ personal information, while safety measures should be implemented to prevent unintended harm from AI applications.

        Another vital component of AI ethics is the commitment to beneficence, ensuring that AI technologies enhance human well-being and positively contribute to society. This involves empowering users by giving them control over their data and promoting informed decision-making. Collaboration among stakeholders—such as technologists, policymakers, and ethicists—is essential to address the complex ethical challenges posed by AI advancements. Continuous evaluation of ethical practices is necessary as the technology evolves, ensuring that AI remains aligned with human values and societal norms. 

        There were more than ten speakers at the event, and all of them were exceptional. Each speaker shared their knowledge excellently, providing valuable insights into Open Source Software (OSS) and its impact on various industries. Their expertise and diverse perspectives enriched the discussions, making the experience informative and engaging. The speakers not only highlighted the benefits of OSS but also inspired participants to explore new possibilities in the tech landscape.

            Reflecting on the possibilities of implementing the insights gained from the webinar, I see numerous practical applications for AI ethics and Open Source Software (OSS) in my future projects. For instance, by prioritizing transparency and accountability in any AI-driven solution I develop, I can build trust with users and ensure ethical use of technology. Additionally, leveraging OSS can enhance collaboration and innovation, allowing for the sharing of best practices and resources. I can also advocate for fairness by carefully selecting diverse training data and continuously monitoring AI systems for bias. Ultimately, applying these learnings will enable me to create solutions that not only advance technology but also align with ethical standards, contributing positively to society.

            The venue was spacious and welcoming, creating the perfect environment for learning and collaboration. The hosts were excellent speakers, captivating the audience with their knowledge and enthusiasm, setting a lively tone for the event. A standout feature was the generous amount of food—attendees were treated to a delicious free lunch and an array of snacks throughout the day, making the experience even more enjoyable. Additionally, each speaker’s session was interactive, with pens and paper provided for the Q&A, ensuring active participation from everyone.

           The event also featured a fun game segment with exciting prizes, adding an element of excitement and engagement. Attendees were thrilled with the many giveaways and freebies that were distributed, further enhancing the overall experience. The vibrant atmosphere encouraged meaningful discussions and networking, allowing participants to connect and share ideas. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that not only deepened our knowledge but also fostered a sense of community, making it a truly memorable and enriching day.