2024 Keynote SpeAkers
Prof. Farid Meziane (Head
of the Data Science Research Centre)
University of Derby, UK
Speech Title: Exploiting Web Resources to Support Automatic Course Design
Abstract: With the rapid advances in E-learning systems, personalisation and adaptability have now become important features in the education technology. Furthermore, there are many countries that are struggling to attract teachers in some disciplines such as computer science. This talk will focus on the development of an architecture for A Personalised and Adaptable E-Learning System (APELS) that attempts to contribute to addressing some of these challenges.
APELS aims to provide a personalised and adaptable learning environment to users from the freely available resources on the Web. Hence allowing individuals and teaching institutions to take advantage of Artificial Intelligence and the availability of learning resources. The architecture makes use of an ontology to model a specific learning subject and to extract the relevant learning resources from the Web based on a learner’s model (the learners background, needs and learning styles). The APELS system uses natural language processing techniques to evaluate the content extracted from relevant resources against a set of learning outcomes as defined by standard curricula to enable the appropriate learning of the subject. An application in the computer science field is used to illustrate the working mechanisms of the APELS system and its evaluation based on the ACM/IEEE computing curriculum. An experimental evaluation was conducted with domain experts to evaluate whether APELS can produce the right learning material that suits the learning needs of a learner. The results show that the produced content by APELS is of a good quality and satisfies the learning outcomes for teaching purposes.
Biography: Farid Meziane is a professor of Data Science, Head of the Data Science Research Centre, the University’s lead for the Data Science academic research theme and the chair of the college of Science and Engineering Research Committee at the University of Derby, UK. He obtained a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Salford, UK on his work on producing formal specification from Natural Language requirements. The work was considered at that time as pioneering in the area and paved the way for a large interest in automating the production of software specifications from informal requirements.
He has authored over 200 scientific papers and participated in many national and international research projects. He is the co-chair of the international conference on application of Natural Language to information systems; co-chair of the international conference on Information Science and Systems. He is serving in the programme committee of over ten international conferences. He is an associate editor for the data and knowledge engineering (Elsevier) journal and the managing editor of the International Journal of Information Technology and Web Engineering (IDEA publishing). He was awarded the Highly Commended Award from the Literati Club, 2001 for his paper on Intelligent Systems in Manufacturing: Current Development and Future Prospects. His research expertise includes Natural Language processing, semantic computing, data mining and big data and knowledge Engineering.
Webpage: https://www.derby.ac.uk/staff/farid-meziane/
Prof. Tarek M. Sobh (Fellow
of African Academy of Sciences, Fellow of The Engineering
Society of Detroit)
President
Professor of
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Lawrence
Technological University, USA
Distinguished
Professor and Dean of Engineering Emeritus
University
of Bridgeport, USA
Speech Title: The Future Reimagined: Disruptive
Technologies and the Dawn of the Autonomous Age
Abstract: The world stands on the threshold of an era defined
by extraordinary technological disruptions, poised to reshape
every facet of life, industry, and education. Emerging
innovations—from generative AI and autonomous robotics to
personalized medicine and electric, sustainable mobility—are
converging to create unprecedented transformations in the
workforce, evolving job roles, and altering the way we
approach learning, research, and daily interactions. As
autonomous systems infiltrate fields once thought impossible
to automate, new paradigms of smart cities, sustainable
infrastructures, and personalized experiences are rapidly
redefining modern existence. In this evolving landscape,
traditional skill sets will be augmented by interdisciplinary
agility, professional excellence, and deep technological
acumen—hallmarks of the Lawrence Technological University
approach.
In this keynote address, we will explore how
these disruptive technologies are setting the stage for a
radically reimagined future. We will delve into the
transformative potential of these advancements, discussing not
only the promise they hold but also the profound societal
shifts they necessitate. By aligning our focus on
technological eminence, industry immersion, and
research-driven innovation, we, as educators and industry
leaders, have the unique responsibility to equip the next
generation for roles that are yet to be defined, guiding them
to become leaders in a world where theory must not only meet
practice but push the boundaries of what is conceivable.
Biography: Professor Tarek M. Sobh received the B.Sc. in
Engineering degree with honors in Computer Science and
Automatic Control from the Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria
University, Egypt in 1988, and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in
Computer and Information Science from the School of
Engineering, University of Pennsylvania in 1989 and 1991,
respectively. He is currently the President and a Professor of
Electrical and Computer Engineering at Lawrence Technological
University (LTU), Michigan. He is also a Distinguished
Professor and Dean of Engineering Emeritus at the University
of Bridgeport, Connecticut.
He was the Provost at LTU
(2020-2021), and has served as the University of Bridgeport
(UB) Executive Vice President, Research and Economic
Development, and the Founding Dean of the College of
Engineering, Business, and Education (2018-2020), Interim
Provost (2020), and Distinguished Professor of Engineering and
Computer Science (2010-2020). He was the Founding Director of
the Interdisciplinary Robotics, Intelligent Sensing, and
Control (RISC) laboratory (1995-2020), the Founder of the
High-Tech Business Incubator at UB (CTech IncUBator)
(2010-2011), and the Founding Director of the UB Innovation
Center (2019-2020). He was the Senior Vice President for
Graduate Studies and Research (2014-2018), Vice President
(2008-2014), Vice Provost (2006-2008), Dean of the School of
Engineering (1999-2018), Interim Dean of the School of
Business, Director of External Engineering Programs, Interim
Chair of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, and Chair
of the Department of Technology Management. He also served as
a Professor of Computer, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
and Computer Science (2000-2010) and an Associate Professor of
Computer Science and Computer Engineering (1995-1999) at UB, a
Research Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the
Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering,
University of Utah (1992-1995), and a Research Fellow at the
General Robotics and Active Sensory Perception (GRASP)
Laboratory of the University of Pennsylvania from (1989-1991).
His background is in the fields of computer science and
engineering, STEM Education, control theory, robotics,
automation, manufacturing, AI, computer vision and signal
processing. He has published over 275 refereed journal and
conference papers, and book chapters in these and other areas,
in addition to 27 books. Dr. Sobh served or currently serves
on the editorial boards of 18 journals, and has served as
Chair, Technical Program Chair and on the program committees
of over 300 international conferences and workshops in the
Robotics, Computer Vision, Automation, Sensing, Computing,
Systems, Control, Online Engineering and Engineering Education
areas. He has presented more than 150 keynote speeches,
invited talks and lectures, colloquia and seminars at research
meetings, University departments, research centers, and
companies.
Professor Sobh has supervised over 50
award-winning graduate and undergraduate students working on
different projects within robotics, prototyping, computer
vision, control, and manufacturing; in addition to more than
300 undergraduate and graduate students working on their B.S.
projects, Master's thesis or Ph.D. dissertations. Dr. Sobh is
active in consulting and providing service to many industrial
organizations and companies. He has consulted for several
companies in the U.S., Switzerland, India, Malaysia, England,
the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan and Egypt, to support
projects in higher education, robotics, automation,
manufacturing, sensing, and control. He has also worked at
Philips Laboratories in New York, and a number of companies in
Egypt. Dr. Sobh has been awarded over 60 research awards and
grants to pursue his work in robotics, automation, STEM
education, manufacturing, and sensing.
Dr. Sobh is a
Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, a member of the
Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering, and a Fellow
of the Engineering Society of Detroit. Dr. Sobh is a recipient
of the ASEE Northeastern U.S. Distinguished Engineering
Professor of the Year award, the IEEE Northeast Technological
Innovation Research Award, an ACE Higher Education Award and
several other merits in recognition of his educational,
research, scholarly and service activities in engineering,
education, computing and diversity initiatives. Dr. Sobh is a
Licensed Professional Electrical Engineer (P.E.), a Certified
Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) by the Society of Manufacturing
Engineers, a Certified Professional Manager (C.M.) by the
Institute of Certified Professional Managers at James Madison
University, a Certified Reliability Engineer (C.R.E.) by the
American Society for Quality, a member of Tau Beta Pi
(Engineering Honor Society), Sigma Xi (Scientific Research
Society), Phi Beta Delta (International Honor Society),
Upsilon Pi Epsilon (National Honor Society for the Computing
Sciences), Phi Kappa Phi (Academic Honor Society), and an
honorary member of Delta Mu Delta (National Honor Society for
Business Administration).
Dr. Sobh is a trustee, senior
member, founding, executive, or board member of several
professional organizations including; the Association for
Computing Machinery (ACM), Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE), International Society for
Optical Engineering (SPIE), National Society of Professional
Engineers (NSPE), American Society of Engineering Education
(ASEE), American Association for the Advancement of Science
(AAAS), Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME),
International Association of Online Engineering (IAOE),
Bridgeport Discovery Museum, American University of Iraq –
Baghdad (AUIB), Michigan College Access Network (MCAN),
Michigan Independent Colleges and Universities Association
(MICU), Detroit Economic Club (DEC), Association of
Independent Technological Universities (AITU),
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC), Automation
Alley, and the Centrepolis Accelerator. Dr. Sobh is a graduate
of Victoria College, Alexandria, Egypt, in 1983 and a life
member of the Old Victorians Association.
Assoc. Prof. Harry Yu
University of Derby, UK
Speech Title: Generative AI (LLM) for Software Engineering: Current Work and Challenges and Future Directions
Abstract: The keynote addresses the transformative role of Generative AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), in revolutionizing software engineering. It explores how generative models are reshaping traditional development phases, from ideation and coding to testing and deployment. Tracing the evolution from Waterfall to Agile, and now to AI-driven software product engineering, we examine how generative AI supports development by automating complex tasks such as code generation, UI design, microservices management, and data orchestration. Practical applications demonstrate LLMs’ capabilities in code completion, error detection, and natural language programming, which streamline development and increase productivity. Additionally, this presentation highlights enterprise-level integration, where AI-driven orchestration of multi-source data and cloud architecture enables the rapid development of tailored data products.
The presentation also addresses critical challenges: quality control, reliability, security, and ethical considerations. With unpredictability in output and potential vulnerabilities in AI-generated code, establishing quality control protocols and building trust is essential. Ethical concerns surrounding accountability and transparency are examined, underscoring the need for explainable AI in critical applications. Future directions are outlined, emphasizing the potential for new communication protocols and AI-enhanced security measures that will facilitate smoother integration within Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) frameworks. This keynote presents a comprehensive look at both the capabilities and the responsibilities associated with generative AI in software engineering, offering insights into its future potential and the evolving role of AI-assisted development.
Biography: Dr. Hongqing (Harry) Yu, a distinguished
Associate Professor in Data Science at the University of
Derby, serves as both the Chair of the Master's Teaching
Committee and the leader of the master's degree portfolio
within the School of Computing. His career is marked by
leading several high-profile projects funded by European and
UK bodies, including two pivotal Innovate UK research projects
focused on digital twins in the aerospace sector and a
knowledge exchange partnership project dedicated to multimodal
data analytics for rail inspection.
With a Ph.D. in Data
Science domain and MSc in Software Engineering from the
University of Leicester, Dr. Yu has made significant
contributions to the fields of data analytics and generative
AI. His research ambitiously spans big data analytics, machine
learning, service-oriented programming, and the practical
application of Large Language Models (LLMs), achieving
remarkable progress in healthcare system, digital twins for
engineering, and sports analytics. Recent research on
combining Natural Langue Processing and knowledge graph
technologies for developing intelligent systems in
bioengineering and automative data analysis published in high
impact journals recently have create great impacts in both
academia and industry.
Since he joined University of Derby,
his research is extended into more engineering and applied AI
area with his extensive knowledge gained from his previous
research. He is currently leading research projects with Bloc
Digital on digital twins and knowledge exchange partnership
project dedicated to multimodal data analytics for inspection
problems illustrated the big achievements of gaining
recognitions of his AI research. He also supervised 12 Ph.D.
students, demonstrating his commitment to fostering the next
generation of scientists in AI and data science. His academic
prowess is further evidenced by his authorship of over 50
publications and his leadership roles in several
internationally renowned, high-impact journals. Recognized for
his groundbreaking work, Dr. Yu was honored with the
University of Derby's Exceptional Contribution Award in 2023,
underscoring his influential role in advancing the frontiers
of computer science research and education.
Dr. Branislav Vuksanovic
(Deputy Head of Department of Systems Engineering)
Military
Technological College, Oman
Speech Title: Challenges and Advances in Facial Expression Recognition: From Manual Analysis to Deep Learning
Abstract: Facial expression recognition (FER) has evolved significantly from early manual recognition methods to sophisticated automatic systems powered by machine learning and deep learning. This keynote will explore the historical progression of FER, highlighting the shift from first attempts of manual recognition to hand-crafted feature-based algorithms to fully automatic approaches using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). Key challenges, such as the limitations of existing databases, the complexity of real-world expression recognition, and the impact of variables like image resolution and ambiguous facial expressions, will be discussed. The talk will also address ongoing research efforts aimed at improving the accuracy of FER in dynamic and unconstrained environments, as well as the complexities of cross-database FER, recognition of mixed emotions and subtle expressions. Finally, the presentation will provide insights into the future of FER technology and its potential applications in real-world settings.
Biography: Dr. Branislav Vuksanovic is an Electrical and
Power Engineer, with a long academic and professional career.
He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of
Belgrade, Serbia, and later earned his MSc degree in
Measurement and Instrumentation at South Bank University in
London, UK. He went on to complete his PhD in Active Noise
Control at the University of Huddersfield, UK.
Dr.
Vuksanovic has a career history, which includes working as a
Project Engineer for the Croatian Electricity Board in Osijek,
Croatia, and as a Research Fellow at Sheffield and Birmingham
Universities on medical imaging research projects. At the
University of Derby, he worked as a Lecturer and was a member
of the Sensors and Controls Research Group. He moved to
theUniversity of Portsmouth where he first worked as a Senior
Lecturer and later as an Associate Head of School for Research
and Innovation at the School of Energy and Electronic
Engineering. Currently he is a Deputy Head of Department of
Systems Engineering at the Military Technological College in
Oman.
He has written and published research papers,
including those in the areas of active noise control,
biomedical signal processing, and pattern recognition for
intrusion detection and knowledge-based authentication. He has
also authored a book in the Digital Electronics and
Microcontrollers field, and organized and chaired several
international conferences and workshops. Dr. Vuksanovic
currently serves as an Editor-In Chief for the Journal of
Image and Graphics and is a member of the IET and ASR. His
current research interests revolve around the application of
pattern recognition techniques for power systems, acoustic
noise analysis and the processing of ground-penetrating radar
data.
Invited Speaker
Assoc. Prof. Aslina Baharum (Programme Leader of Department of Computing and Information Systems, School of Engineering and Technology)
Sunway University, Malaysia
Speech Title: From Data to Delight: AI-UX Strategies for Optimizing Network Performance in Smart Cities through Digital Twin Technology
Abstract: The integration of AI-UX strategies and Digital Twin Technology is transforming network performance optimization in smart cities, addressing the challenges of balancing technical efficiency and user experience. As urban areas increasingly rely on intelligent systems for transportation, utilities, and public services, adapting network infrastructure to dynamic user needs remains difficult. Existing approaches often prioritize data analytics and technical parameters while neglecting human factors, leading to suboptimal user engagement. This study introduces an AI-UX framework utilizing Digital Twin Technology to optimize network management by creating virtual models of physical assets. These models enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and adaptive user interface designs based on actual user behavior and environmental data. The approach involves combining AI-driven simulations with iterative UX design processes to evaluate the framework's impact. Findings reveal that integrating Digital Twin Technology with AI-UX strategies significantly improves network reliability, reduces downtime, and enhances user satisfaction by creating responsive and human-centered network ecosystems. This study aims to establish a new paradigm in smart city network management, fostering sustainable and user-friendly environments through the combined use of advanced technologies and humanity-centric design principles.
Biography: Ts. Dr. Aslina holds the esteemed position of Associate Professor and Programme Leader of Department of Computing and Information Systems (DCIS) Postgraduate at the School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University. Previously, she has served as a Senior Lecture at the Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences in Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), and as a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Computing and Informatics in Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), where she led the User Experience (UX) research group. Completing her academic journey, she also brings valuable industry experiences as a former Information Technology (IT) Officer at the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM). She had experienced more than 20 years in the IT field.
She earned her PhD in Visual Informatics from UKM, a Master Science degree in IT from UiTM, and Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in E-Commerce from UMS. Dr. Ask is an active member of the Young Scientists Network - Academy of Science Malaysia, a Senior Mem-ber IEEE, and a certified Professional Technologist recognized by MBOT. She has further contributed to the field by serving as an auditor for MBOT/MQA.
She has received medals at research and innovation showcases and has been honored with awards for her teaching, excellence in service, and outstanding contributions as a re-searcher. Her bibliography showcases her prolific output, including co-authored and co-edited books, over 20 book chapters, technical papers presented at conferences, and more than 60 peer-reviewed and indexed journals publications. She has also taken on editorial roles for several journals and actively participated as a committee member, session chair, and part of editorial board/ teams while actively participating as a reviewer. Dr. Aslina has graced numerous conferences with her wisdom, delivering keynote, invited and plenary talks.
Her research interests span a wide spectrum, encompassing UX/UI, HCI/Interaction De-sign, Product & Service Design, Software Engineering & Mobile Development, Information Visualization & Analytics, Multimedia, ICT, IS and Entre/Technopreneurship. Dr. Aslina’s expertise extends beyond the academic realm; she imparts her knowledge through work-shops and talks on various subjects, including UI/UX, Entrepreneurship, Video/Image Edit-ing, E-Commerce/Digital Marketing, STEM, Design Thinking and etc.
Furthermore, she is certified as a Professional Entrepreneurial Educator, Executive Entre-preneurial Leader, and HRDF Professional Trainer, which highlights her strong commit-ment to education and entrepreneurship. Dr. Aslina is highly regard in her field, dedicated and consistently pushing the boundaries of knowledge and sharing her wealth of expertise with others.
