The 1st International Interdisciplinary Biennial Conference hosted by Dominican University brought together scholars, researchers, policymakers, media professionals, and technology experts to examine one of the most pressing questions of our time: How can Artificial Intelligence serve humanity responsibly?

Held on May 6–7, 2026, the conference explored the theme “Artificial Intelligence and the Human Future: Ethics, Communication, and the Voices of Women and Youth at the Margins.” Nearly 500 participants engaged in discussions on AI’s growing influence on education, healthcare, governance, media, and society.

A major highlight was the keynote addresses, which emphasized inclusive AI, ethical governance, digital equity, and responsible innovation. Speakers stressed the need to ensure that women, youth, and marginalized communities are actively involved in shaping the future of AI.

The conference observed that while AI offers enormous opportunities for development, it also raises concerns about bias, misinformation, inequality, accountability, and digital exclusion. Participants called for stronger collaboration among governments, educational institutions, media organizations, faith communities, and technology developers to promote human-centered AI systems.

One key message resonated throughout the event: Africa and the Global South must move beyond being consumers of AI technologies to becoming active contributors to AI research, policy, and innovation.

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to advancing ethical, inclusive, and socially responsible AI that promotes human dignity, justice, truth, and the common good.

As AI continues to transform the world, Dominican University's inaugural conference has positioned itself as an important platform for shaping conversations around the future of humanity in the age of Artificial Intelligence.