Universitas Indonesia (UI) is promoting literacy in artificial intelligence (AI) for Indonesian women through a workshop titled “AI-Data Science & Women Leadership.” The workshop, held from July 16–18, 2024, at the Faculty of Engineering (FT) UI, is a collaboration between UI, Anglia Ruskin University, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Women in Engineering, supported by the British Council.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M., M.Sc., a professor at FTUI and the head of the organizing committee, stated that this workshop is an effort to empower women through the mastery of technology and data science skills. Data science is a highly sought-after industry, particularly for its ability to extract valuable insights from vast amounts of data. This data-driven modelling trend is prevalent in science and engineering research, driven by the advantages of deep learning and other machine learning frameworks.
According to Prof. Riri, enhancing women’s skills in AI data science will increase employability and provide added value to industries while empowering them in research through valid data-driven modelling. “Therefore, this program is designed to provide practical and strategic knowledge relevant to current industry needs,” she said.
The workshop was attended by 60 selected women from 182 applicants from various provinces in Indonesia. Participants received materials on Python Programming and Notebook and Basic Python for Data Science, as well as other topics like Fundamentals of Data Science and Pre-processing, which included evaluations and case studies. In addition to data science, participants received training in 21st Century Leadership and Strategic Thinking and Innovation to inspire their leadership spirit.
Lead Partner (UK) Anglia Ruskin University, Dr. Bernardi Pranggono, mentioned that this activity could positively impact cooperation, advancing Women in Engineering in Indonesia and the UK. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to disseminating and integrating the latest technology for many Indonesian women in facing global challenges, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the development of ethics in promoting well-being.
“Skills and job opportunities for women in technology need continuous support. The application of AI in various fields of work pursued by the participants is expected to inspire the realization of a strong future generation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” said Dr. Bernardi.
On a separate occasion, the Dean of FTUI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Heri Hermansyah, S.T., M.Eng., IPU, stated, “This initiative aligns with UI’s commitment to empowering women in technology and science, and encouraging their participation in the increasingly digital and data-driven industry. Through this workshop, we hope to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for Indonesian women to actively participate in the world of AI and data science. Additionally, we aim to inspire more women to take on leadership positions in technology, thus significantly contributing to the nation’s progress.”
The three-day workshop was also attended by the Head of the Department of Electrical Engineering FTUI, Dr. Eng. Arief Udhiarto, S.T., M.T.; FTUI Lecturer, Dr. Prima Dewi Purnamasari; Deputy Anglia Ruskin University, Dr. Erika Sanchez-Velazquez; Deputy IEEE Women in Engineering Indonesia, Dr. Nur Afny Catur Andryani; Deputy IEEE Women in Engineering Indonesia, Dr. Dewi Yanti Liliana; and UI Research Assistant, Amrita Deviayu Tunjungbiru.
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Public Communications Office
Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia
