SMART interdisciplinary research group (IRG) Mens, Manus, and Machina (M3S) organised a forum at the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024) titled, ‘The Future of Work: AI-Enhanced Robotics and Human Interaction Research in M3S’, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on 18 October 2024.
IROS 2024, one of the world’s largest and most prominent robotics research conferences, was themed ‘Robotics for Sustainable Development.” The conference, which was chaired by Professor Cecilia Laschi, SMART M3S’ Principal Investigator and Provost's Chair Professor of robotics at the National University of Singapore (NUS), emphasised the role of robotics in advancing sustainability goals and aimed to highlight emerging researchers and practitioners. The five-day conference and exhibition set a record with nearly 10,000 delegates and visitors, and more than 500 research papers were presented on the last day. It also showcased a variety of new technology demonstrations through various challenges and competitions in applied research focused on robotics and intelligent systems. The conference also captivated the audience with plenary talks, workshops, technical sessions, competitions, and interactive forums.
With notable guests in attendance, the M3S forum brought together researchers, academics, and industry professionals from around the world, including professors and researchers from SMART, MIT and other institutes, as well as the NUS, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), and Sant'Anna School for Advanced Studies, Italy, among others.
SMART M3S’ Lead Principal Investigator, Professor Jinhua Zhao, opened the forum with a warm welcome and introduction.
The M3S forum at IROS 2024 delved into key themes shaping the integration of AI and robotics across various sectors, envisioning a future where AI and robotics can elevate human potential and sustain an inclusive and productive workforce. The speakers, which included Professor Tong Boon Quek, Chief Executive of the National Robotics Programme (NRP), Singapore, discussed how AI-driven systems with human-centred design could enhance productivity by complementing human skills in dynamic settings and highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to align technological advancement with societal needs. Education and workforce transformation was another key topic, where experts highlighted the need for educational systems with adaptive, AI-powered learning to prepare future workers for AI-integrated roles.
Additionally, the experts covered the ethical considerations and governance required to balance innovation with labour rights, particularly the role of policy in ensuring fair treatment and job security as AI reshapes work norms. The panel discussion showcased real-world case studies of successful AI and robotics implementations and underscored existing challenges. Looking forward, the speakers shared their aspirations for the future of AI, with a collective vision for it to become a supportive tool for human labour, especially in complex environments that require nuanced understanding, such as eldercare, education, and emergency response.
The forum concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Professor Jinhua Zhao and featured Professor Tong Boon Quek, Professor Cecilia Laschi, Professor Alberto Pirni, and Professor Ben Leong.
IROS 2024 concluded on 18 October with insightful presentations and engaging discussions, where participants explored innovative approaches to leveraging technology for sustainable development and enhancing collaboration between humans and machines.
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