HKUST GeoAI Workshop on Oct 9, 2023

HKUST's Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) successfully hosted the HKUST GeoAI Workshop on Oct 9, 2023. Despite extreme weather, the event took place online eventually. The workshop focused on the emerging field of GeoAI, which combines AI technology with geo-spatial databases. It aimed to attract top researchers to the UST campus and provided university members with the opportunity to attend talks and panel discussions by renowned speakers. Nearly 100 participants gained valuable insights and knowledge in this rapidly evolving field.

Keynote speakers covered various AI topics. Prof. Mohamed Mokbel (University of Minnesota) discussed spatial data integration in machine learning, emphasizing improved accuracy through spatial awareness. Prof. Cyrus Shahabi (University of Southern California) explored the intersection of location-based services and privacy protection. Prof. Li Xiong (Emory University) showcased advancements in federated learning for addressing data heterogeneity, privacy, and robustness in collaborative AI. These talks demonstrated the application of GeoAI across domains.

Local speakers addressed specific areas of interest. Prof. Xiaofang Zhou (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) discussed smart city development using big data, including efficient routing solutions considering past, present, and future traffic patterns. Prof. Jianliang Xu (Hong Kong Baptist University) focused on scaling Kernel Density Visualization (KDV) methods and efficient algorithms for handling large geospatial datasets. Prof. Reynold Cheng (The University of Hong Kong) discussed the application of mobility data science in analyzing COVID-19 travel patterns, emphasizing transportation's role in virus spread and passenger behavior. These talks highlighted advancements and insights in data-driven GeoAI approaches.

The workshop concluded with a panel discussion titled "GeoAI: Past, Present, and Future," moderated by Prof. Raymond Chi-Wing Wong. The panel featured three distinguished overseas keynote speakers: Prof. Mohamed Mokbel, Prof. Cyrus Shahabi, and Prof. Li Xiong. Attendees actively participated, posing questions and gaining valuable insights in a dynamic and engaging discussion.

Overall, the workshop provided university members with valuable knowledge in the emerging field of GeoAI and fostered collaboration among esteemed computer science departments. It served as a significant milestone in advancing computer science education and research globally, showcasing the latest advancements in GeoAI through keynote speakers and local experts. The panel discussion on the past, present, and future of GeoAI highlighted a shared vision for a society where technology and education synergize to drive innovation and enlightenment.

More details of the workshop.

Group photo from the online HKUST GeoAI Workshop (1).

Group photo from the online HKUST GeoAI Workshop (2).

Group photo from the online HKUST GeoAI Workshop (3).