AI Conference and Mobile Journalism Workshop Unique Learning Opportunities for AQB Students in Doha, Qatar

Doha, Qatar – January 11th-16th, 2025 – A group of students recently returned from an enriching six-day trip to Doha, Qatar, where they had the opportunity to attend two significant events hosted by Al-Jazeera: the Conference on AI and the Mobile Journalism Workshop with the Al-Jazeera Media Institute. This trip is part of the ongoing collaboration between Education Above All and Al-Quds Bard College, providing students with unique learning opportunities in the media.

The trip offered the students a unique chance to learn from top experts and gain hands-on experience in modern media practices. One of the trip’s key highlights was attending the Al-Jazeera AI Conference, where students explored the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in media. The conference featured influential speakers, such as Abran Maldonado, the creator of OpenAI, and many Al-Jazeera TV hosts who shared their insights on the benefits and challenges of AI. Students engaged in meaningful discussions with these experts, gaining a deeper understanding of how AI is already impacting industries worldwide.

The second event, the Mobile Journalism Workshop, taught students how to capture professional-quality images and videos using only their smartphones. A standout moment was when students filmed human interest stories at Souk Waqif, a popular market in Doha, applying their new skills in a real-world setting.  At the end of the workshop, the students were awarded certificates of completion of the workshop. This hands-on experience taught us how powerful mobile phones can be in telling live and compelling stories.

Additionally, the students were given a chance to tour the studios providing them with a behind-the-scenes look at the network’s operations. They also had the opportunity to explore postgraduate opportunities at Doha, potentially opening doors for future academic and career growth in media and journalism.

This trip was an incredible opportunity for the students to learn from leading experts in AI and media. They returned with new skills, insights, and a deeper understanding of the role AI and mobile journalism will play in the future of the media.

The experience provided valuable lessons that will have a lasting impact on the students’ education and careers in media and journalism.

Shumoo Ayaseh
EAA Scholarship Communications Officer
Al-Quds Bard College

• Al Jazeera AI Conference