Keynotes

Dr. Faris A. ALMALKI

Professor, Taif University,KSA

Title: Revolutionizing Autonomous Aerial Operations

Abstract: This keynote addresses the burgeoning advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and their transformative impact on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), encompassing both drones and high-altitude balloons. I will explore the latest AI technologies enabling unprecedented levels of autonomy, efficiency, and intelligence in aerial platforms, leading to a new era of smart applications across diverse sectors. Recent breakthroughs in onboard AI processing are shifting the paradigm from purely remote-controlled UAVs to highly autonomous systems. Key developments include:

• - Enhanced Perception and Computer Vision: Sophisticated AI algorithms coupled with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR, and thermal sensors enable real-time object detection and recognition (including hidden objects and those in dense vegetation), 3D mapping, and enhanced environmental awareness. This allows UAVs to understand their surroundings with remarkable precision, crucial for obstacle avoidance and target identification.
• - Autonomous Navigation and Path Planning: AI-driven systems are mastering complex navigation, even in GPS-denied environments, through techniques like visual odometry and advanced mapping. They can dynamically adjust flight paths based on real-time data, optimizing for factors like wind, terrain, and battery life, ensuring safe and efficient operations..
• - Real-time Data Processing and Analysis: Onboard processing units, often leveraging lightweight AI models and edge intelligence, allow for immediate analysis of captured data. This capability is critical for time-sensitive applications, reducing the need for extensive data transmission to ground stations and enabling rapid decision-making.
• - Swarm Intelligence: AI is facilitating the coordination of multiple UAVs, enabling them to work collaboratively as a single, intelligent unit. This "swarm" approach significantly enhances coverage, efficiency, and the ability to undertake complex tasks beyond the scope of individual platforms.
• - Energy-Efficient AI Hardware: Research is focusing on developing neuromorphic computing systems and flexible, neuron-like nano-devices that can integrate energy- efficient AI capabilities directly onto small, battery-powered drones, overcoming limitations of traditional AI chips..
- The integration of AI into UAVs is not just an incremental improvement; it represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive and utilize aerial platforms, unlocking unprecedented capabilities for observation, intervention, and data-driven decision-making. These technological leaps are empowering a wide range of smart applications onboard UAVs like:6G Telecommunications, Environmental Monitoring and Conservation, Emergency Response and Smart City Integration, Search and Rescue Operations, Infrastructure Inspection and Maintenance, Precision Agriculture, Enhanced Security and Surveillance.

These are some fundamental research questions in the intersection area between Recommendation Systems and Scientometrics. In this talk, key approaches for each question will be presented, discussed and compared.

Speaker bio: He is an Associate Professor in Wireless Communications and Drones at the Computer Engineering Department at Taif University, Saudi Arabia, a research fellow in the Dep. of Electronic and Computer Engineering at Brunel University London, UK. He holds a BSc in Computer Engineering from Taif University, an MSc in Broadband and Mobile Communication Networks from Kent University and a PhD in Wireless Communication Networks from Brunel University London. Worked at Google Developer Group in Reading, UK in 2018. He is a member of the IEEE Communication Society. He is a reviewer for many respected journals and publishers, including Springer, IEEE, Elsevier, and Oxford Press. His research interests UAVs & Satellites and their applications in Ad hoc wireless networks. Besides, topics related to AI, IoMT, ML, and Emerging Trends & Applications. Published more than 100 scientific research articles and 1 book and participated in 4 specialized books. Additionally, he published an enrichment book on Volunteerism and Social Entrepreneurship. He secured 3 research grants from the Deanship of Scientific Research at Taif University. Joined a Stanford’s global list of the top 2% of the world’s scientists for the years 2022 to 2024. Also, he was awarded the best research award many times at IEEE conferences worldwide..

Mario F. Pavone

Professor, Department of Mathematics & Computer Science University of Catania, Italy

Title: Metaheuristics and Machine Learning: how one enhances the other

Abstract: The integration between machine learning and metaheuristics methods offers many advantages in all those problems where the use of purely stochastic algorithms is no longer sufficient. The literature on the hybridization of metaheuristics and machine learning can be broadly categorized into two groups: research papers where machine learning is used to enhance metaheuristics, and those where metaheuristics are used to improve the performance of machine learning techniques.
In this talk I will present some applications where machine learning techniques are incorporated into population-based algorithms to improve their performance. Conversely, I will also show how metaheuristics are very useful to machine learning to determine the optimal neural networks configuration.

Speaker bio: He is an Associate Professor in Computer Science at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Catania, Italy. His research focuses on the design and development of Metaheuristics applied in Combinatorial Optimization, Computational Biology, Network Sciences, and Social Networks.
He is a member of several Editorial Boards for international journals and many Program Committees in international conferences and workshops. He also has extensive experience organizing successful workshops, symposiums, conferences, and summer schools. Currently, he is the Chief of the Scientific Directors of the Metaheuristics Summer School (MESS).
In his scientific activities, he was also a Tutorial and Invited Speaker for several international conferences, and Editor of many special issues in fields like Artificial Life, Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence (EAAI), Applied Soft Computing (ASOC), International Transactions in Operational Research (ITOR), BMC Immunology, Natural Computing, and Memetic Computing.

Pr. Hanaa HACHIMI

Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco

Title: The Power of Data: How AI is Revolutionizing Operational Models

Abstract: In today's digital age, data has emerged as a powerful asset driving transformative changes across industries. This presentation explores the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on operational models within businesses. By harnessing the power of data analytics and machine learning algorithms, AI is revolutionizing traditional operational paradigms, enabling organizations to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and drive innovation. From predictive maintenance and supply chain optimization to personalized customer experiences, AI-powered operational models are reshaping the way businesses operate and compete in the market. This abstract delves into key strategies, case studies, and future trends, illustrating how the convergence of AI and data is unlocking unprecedented opportunities for organizations to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.

Speaker bio: Prof. Dr. Hanaa Hachimi, Ph.D in Applied Mathematics & Computer Science and a Ph.D in Mechanics & Systems Reliability, I am Full Professor at National School of Applied Sciences, Ibn Tofail University of Kenitra, Morocco. President of the Moroccan Society of Engineering Sciences and Technology (MSEST). I am the Editor in Chief of “The International Journal on Optimization and Applications” (IJOA). I am Director of the Systems Engineering Laboratory (LGS) and IEEE Senior Member. I am Lecture and Keynote Speaker of the courses: Optimization & Operational Research, Graph Theory, Statistics, Probability, Reliability and Scientific Computing. I am Member of the Moroccan Society of Applied Mathematics (SM2A). I’m the General Chair of “The International Conference on Optimization and Applications” (ICOA) & the International Competition of Innovation (Let’s Challenge). Lions Club Member and UNESCO UIT-Chair Member.