On October 31, the RHU Office of the President hosted Dr. Manal Yunis for the Nazek Rafik Hariri Distinguished Lecture series. Dr. Yunis, Chairperson and Associate Professor at the Lebanese American University, delivered an online lecture titled "The Future is Here: Why AI and Data Analytics Matter."
The RHU President, Dr. Said Ladki, expressed his pleasure at having Dr. Yunis on a special day for RHU, which marks the RHU Founder’s Day. He acknowledged her significant accomplishments and role as the first female leader to inaugurate the lecture series, emphasizing her inspirational impact before welcoming her to the event.
Dr. Yunis emphasized how AI is shaping our choices and experiences without us even realizing it. In a world where digital footprints are everywhere, understanding AI and data analytics is more crucial than ever for success. She highlighted the rapid advancements in these fields, predicting that many current jobs may soon vanish—underscoring the need for relevant skills to thrive in the future job market. The phenomenon of BIG DATA illustrates how industries can gain competitive advantages through AI applications, which are integral across sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, finance, and education. Globally, AI adoption is higher in developed countries. In contrast, the MENA region, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, leads in finance and healthcare applications, with Lebanon lagging due to economic challenges. Data analytics is the backbone of AI, with high-quality data essential for effective decision-making. As demand for roles related to data analytics, data science, AI, and machine learning specialists rise, skills in data analytics are becoming increasingly important across industries. Investing in AI and data analytics is projected to create numerous job opportunities and boost the market, expected to reach $450 billion by 2026. Expertise in these areas will significantly enhance professional profiles, representing essential skills for the future job market.
“Regardless of your career path, expertise in AI and data analytics will significantly enhance your professional profile and set you apart in the job market; indeed, they represent the ‘oil of the age’," she indicated.
Dr. Yunis expressed her gratitude to the RHU President at the end of her lecture. She referred to an earlier conversation with Dr. Ladki, in which he shared his pride in RHU's bright students, qualified staff, and dedicated faculty. Dr. Yunis also highlighted the President’s commitment to preparing students for success in a world increasingly shaped by AI and data analytics. "With RHU's support, you will have the opportunity to acquire these essential skills and stand out in any career path you choose," she stated.
Let's embrace the future of AI and data analytics together!