Two Pakistani Researchers Win Facebook’s Ethics of Asia-Pacific AI Research Initiative
Junaid Qadir, a professor at the Information Technology University (ITU) in Punjab, and his co-researcher Amana Raquib, an assistant professor at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi, have emerged as winners of the Ethics of Asia-Pacific AI Research Initiative, a prestigious program launched by Facebook. They were among the winners from nine different countries, a testament to the exceptional quality of their research.
About the Initiative
The AI initiative aims to support thought-provoking and groundbreaking academic research in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). By partnering with the Center for Civil Society and Governance at the University of Hong Kong and the Data Protection Officer for Personal Data in Hong Kong (PCPD), Facebook launched a call for proposals (RFP) in December 2019. The RFP was open to registered and active academic institutions, think tanks, and research organizations in the Asia-Pacific region, inviting them to submit proposals for interdisciplinary research on AI ethics.
The initiative recognizes the immense potential of AI to drive positive change in society, while also acknowledging the need for careful consideration of its ethical implications. By supporting independent academic research, Facebook aims to foster a deeper understanding of AI and its applications, as well as promote continuous dialogue on these important topics.
Research Focus: Culturally Informed Pro-Social AI Regulations
Dr. Junaid Qadir and Amana Raquib have been recognized for their research on culturally informed pro-social AI regulations and life frameworks. Their project focuses on developing a culturally informed, pro-social AI framework for Pakistan and the Muslim world, drawing on the rich Islamic legal tradition and the purpose (maqāsid) of Islamic law. This innovative approach investigates current AI-related issues through the lens of Islamic ethics, providing new insights and perspectives on the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
The proposed framework aims to move beyond existing AI ethics frameworks, proposing new knowledge that can expand our understanding of AI and Islamic ethical principles and guidelines. By exploring the intersection of AI and Islamic ethics, the project team seeks to contribute to the development of more inclusive and culturally sensitive AI systems.
Meet the Researchers
Junaid Qadir, the lead investigator (PI) of the project, is a professor at the Information Technology University (ITU) in Punjab, Lahore, where he also chairs the electrical engineering department. He received his Ph.D. from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia in 2008 and his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, Pakistan in 2000.
Amana Raquib, the Co-PI of the project, has a Ph.D. in religion and ethics from the University of Queensland, Australia, with summa cum laude. She had previously completed her bachelor’s degree in philosophy at Karachi University. She is the author of the book “Islamic Ethics of Technology: An Objective (Maqasidic) Approach”, a seminal work that explores the intersection of Islamic ethics and technology.
Facebook’s Commitment to AI Ethics
Raina Yeung, Head of Privacy and Data Policy, Engagement, APAC on Facebook, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting independent academic research on AI ethics. “At Facebook, we believe that our understanding of AI should be influenced by research into open collaboration with society. Therefore, we aim to support independent academic research institutes of APAC in conducting interdisciplinary research on AI ethics, which allows for continuous dialogue on these important topics in the application of AI technology, which has great potential for society and humanity.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Ethics of Asia-Pacific AI Research Initiative? The initiative is a program launched by Facebook to support thought-provoking and groundbreaking academic research in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Asia-Pacific region.
- What is the focus of the research project led by Junaid Qadir and Amana Raquib? The project focuses on developing a culturally informed, pro-social AI framework for Pakistan and the Muslim world, drawing on the rich Islamic legal tradition and the purpose (maqāsid) of Islamic law.
- Why is AI ethics important? AI ethics is crucial to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in a responsible and ethical manner, taking into account the potential impact on society and humanity.
The recognition of Junaid Qadir and Amana Raquib’s research by Facebook’s Ethics of Asia-Pacific AI Research Initiative is a significant achievement, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary research on AI ethics. As AI continues to shape our world, it is essential to prioritize responsible AI development and deployment, ensuring that these technologies are used for the betterment of society and humanity.
