AI, robots can help improve security situation

With technology advancing to the point that computers can have near-human like conversations with other humans, it can also be employed in the overall security apparatus of the state to make systems not only efficient but also highly effective - particularly in containing the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).

This was stated by COMSATS’ Dr Mudassar Raza on Sunday while speaking at a lecture on "Artificial Intelligence in Automated Visual for Sustaining Peace and Security". The lecture had been organised by the Institution of Engineers Pakistan, Rawalpindi-Islamabad Center (IEP-RIC) on the uses of artificial intelligence (AI) for peace and security for graduate engineers.

IEP Islamabad Secretary Group Captain (retired) Engr Najamuddin, while conducting the session, explained the significance of AI in counter-terrorism and security surveillance.

Later, Dr Raza explained the importance of using closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras for surveillance to detect dubious activities. He noted that in many aspects, computer-based robots can successfully replace human beings when running security systems.

Dr Raza pointed to the areas where AI can be used for ensuring peace and security, besides effectively controlling the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).

He noted that while science fiction often paints a bleak and dreary picture of such technology which will compete with humans for domination of the world, technology can actually help humans take up several resource-intensive tasks while performing them transparently, without influence and efficiently.

IEP-RIC Chairman Engr Hafiz Ehsaan said that young engineers can benefit from such continuous professional development sessions to not only acquire knowledge and skills in emerging fields of engineering but to also make them eligible to earn credit points to meet the PEC requirements.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 9^th, 2020.