Success from university operations is obvious everywhere you look
So says Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland at the graduation of 2,652 candidates on Saturday
“New and exciting opportunities await as well as countless challenges that you are now equipped to tackle, and you will all grow from your experiences. Success from university operations, our top educational and research institutions, is obvious everywhere and the number of people who enjoy the valuable benefits intrinsic in university education is ever growing,” said Jón Atli.
So said Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, encouraging the 2,562 who graduated from the University Saturday to have a positive impact on our ever-changing society.
“We are standing at a crossroads of a new era, created in part due to the ever-increasing collaboration among scientists from diverse fields of study. Reality is not compartmentalized by subjects and future challenges demand that we all work together. Significant advancements in the development and use of artificial intelligence will undoubtedly greatly increase opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Furthermore, the gigantic computational power of supercomputers, along with massive datasets will expand our understanding across all realms of reality and society.
Great potential for AI in universities
Jón Atli mentioned in his address that when considering the possibilities concerning AI we had hardly scratched the surface in its utilisation. “Artificial intelligence will not only transform research, it will also transform the environment for studies and learning as well as new university operations. It will create new opportunities to open up university studies to young people and thus increase their interest in science and academia.”
The University rector went on to say that AI is not just like any other tool. It also presents itself to us as an independent reality. Technology that appears to be able to think like us, or even for us. It thus not only raises hopes and expectations but also questions about our self-understanding as individuals and as a nation.
“Of course, technological advancements can become so rapid that the very thought of it makes us dizzy. We also know from bitter experience of wars and conflicts that technological advancements do not automatically lead to increased moral maturity. And once again, unfortunately, ominous winds are blowing around the globe. Jón Atli said, "Those of us who dedicate our lives to the pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and freedom trust that conflict and division will not hinder humanity's path to progress."
Innovation more vibrant than ever at the University
The graduates now either enter society to make their mark, or continue on the path of education, one of the most important things a nation can acquire to meet future competition.
The universities are the source of innovation and the University rector mentioned in his address that innovation at the University of Iceland had never been more exciting than today and that the field of science and academia had rarely been more vibrant.
“Science is like friendship,” said Jón Atli “the more you give, the stronger it becomes. And there is enough to go around. We face countless mysteries on the nature of the human mind and behaviour, the foundations of reality, the future of societies and biosphere, the nature of knowledge, and the importance of upbringing and recreation and so on.”
Of great value to live in a country with peaceful elections
These days, Icelanders are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the republic, and the University Rector referred to the recent presidential election. He congratulated Halla Tómasdóttir on her election and wished her success in the important role of President of Iceland. At the same time, he welcomed the outgoing president, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, Professor of history, back to his position at the University of Iceland.
"Never have so many people run for the office of president, and the discussions have rarely been livelier and more diverse. It is of great value to live in a country where the choice of those we elect to lead us is conducted peacefully, and we all accept the democratic outcome."
Jón Atli also sincerely thanked Katrín Jakobsdóttir, former Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Culture, for her support of the University of Iceland in recent years.
Before bidding the candidates farewell the rector said that the role of our scientists was to consistently seek out new solutions so we may continue to increase prosperity and enjoy life's adventure to the fullest.
“Contribute in the best way you can! With good intentions and a clear will to do good you can meet the future joyfully and enjoy the moment.”
