From October 21 to 25, fourteen students from EMMIR Edition 12, representing twelve different nationalities, participated in a study trip focused on Migration and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Technology of Nuremberg (UTN). Organized by EMMIR alumn Daniel Braga, the trip offered a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human mobility and technology in a dynamic and historically significant setting.
UTN is currently being expanded to become Germany's first AI university, making it an ideal location for this study trip. Through a series of lectures, site visits, discussions, and hands-on activities, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the use of technology in the field of migration. Topics explored during the trip included visa application decision-making, chatbot psychological support, and more.
The week began with a welcome session and orientation, where students engaged with UTN’s Welcome Team to learn about technology in Germany and the experience of studying as an international student.
Throughout the trip, participants attended several insightful lectures and discussions, including:
"Intelligence: The Known Unknown," a lecture by Sophia Regopoulos, PhD Candidate at UTN’s LIAS Department, which critically examined concepts of intelligence.
A discussion on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) led by Mariam Ahmed.
A lecture on AI & Gender by Eva Gengler, PhD Candidate at FAU, which explored the impact of AI on gender issues.
Students also had the chance to meet Andrea Kuhn, Director of the Nuremberg International Human Rights Film Festival, and watch Die Anhörung, a documentary about the asylum application process in Switzerland. A visit to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Germany provided further insights into the role of technology in migration.
As part of the study trip, EMMIR students presented several apps using technology in the field of migration to UTN Artificial Intelligence students. These included Cosmpolis, Ankommen, Katim the Chatbot, and RefAid.
The week concluded with a tour of the Old City of Nuremberg and a visit to the Street of Human Rights, offering students a chance to reflect on the historical and social significance of their studies.
This study trip provided EMMIR students with valuable insights into the evolving role of technology in migration. By engaging with experts and exploring new perspectives, participants gained critical tools to reflect on how AI can be used to address both challenges and opportunities in the field of migration.
EMMIR would like to thank the University of Technology of Nuremberg (UTN) and the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), as well as the other partners and institutions who welcomed EMMIRians and shared their insights.
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