Matrix’s Secretariat team attended BelTech 2024, accompanied by Luc Santos Kelly, a Student Placement in the Department For the Economy. Luc has documented his thoughts of the experience below:
This year, I had the opportunity to attend BelTech 2024, an event hosted by industry experts and thought leaders, with captivating discussions about pressing issues such as Generative AI and Cybersecurity.
The speakers covered topics such as the future of quantum encryption, the evolution of Large Language Models and new developments in AI tools for programmers. Coming from a non-software engineering background, two speakers stood out to me: Professor Stephen Kinsella from University of Limerick (UL) and Jake Young from Hamilton Robson.
Professor Kinsella’s approach to university degrees places an emphasis in practical experience, with the ultimate aim of creating the best software engineering graduates in the world. Through UL’s Immersive Software Engineering (ISE) program that he founded, students undergo up to five paid placements in various leading companies, start-ups and organizations, lasting between 10-14 weeks.
The integration of multiple paid placements into university degrees has the potential to modernize further education across various disciplines. Particularly in my own course, the level of experience offered to ISE graduates would help bridge the large gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world practice, while creating a more inclusive environment without relying on unpaid positions.
Additionally, with the adoption of AI in the workplace and its rejection in most educational contexts, the ISE placement model can ensure that students are better prepared for the realities of the modern workforce, equipping them with the skills and competencies needed to thrive in AI-driven environments.
On a different note, Jake Young’s presentation on Narrative Artificial Intelligence (NAI) offered an insight into the intersection of technology and history, with a demonstration of an interactive AI bot of a 1920’s Titanic Dock worker named Seamus. The conversation between the presenter and ‘Seamus’ showcased the immersive potential of NAI, in areas such education, tourism, eldercare and many more.
Reflecting on Young’s presentation, I can see the integration of Narrative AI into small local history exhibitions, like those in my hometown of Rathmullan, Co.Donegal. NAIs embodying the stories of historical figures that took part in the watershed Flight of the Earls, would be an incredible way of preserving the rich history of a small town that risks fading into obscurity due to a lack of resources. Such initiatives would not only celebrate local heritage but also offer engaging educational experiences for future generations.
I am grateful to Stephen Herdman from the DfE Matrix team for this opportunity to attend BelTech. As a student placement these experiences have been invaluable in broadening my horizons of future technology and innovation.
Bio: My name is Luc Santos Kelly, and I am currently undergoing a year-long student placement at the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland. I am studying Politics, Philosophy, and Economics at Queen’s University Belfast.