ABU DHABI – The UAE stands as a global beacon for envisioning the future and capitalizing on opportunities across diverse sectors, remarked Josée Kirps, President of the International Council on Archives (ICA).
She emphasized that the ICA Abu Dhabi Congress 2023 will serve as a knowledge hub, shaping the future trajectory of the international archiving sector while addressing its challenges and prospects.
Upon the unveiling of the ICA Abu Dhabi Congress 2023, Kirps highlighted the event’s rich and varied agenda. It boasts participation from top-tier experts worldwide and offers a plethora of insightful discussions, aiming to craft a lucid vision for harnessing sectoral opportunities and anticipating the archival profession’s future hurdles.
“With the ICA’s theme, ‘Enriching Knowledge Societies,’ we’re poised to delve into myriad topics, including the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in archiving and record-keeping,” she articulated.
She further expressed eagerness to explore AI’s impact on their work and to foster collaborative strategies for the profession’s future. Kirps underscored the potential of AI and other cutting-edge technologies in safeguarding, documenting, and archiving records.
She sees immense potential in harnessing these technologies for sectoral growth and support. Kirps also revealed that the ICA Congress in Abu Dhabi would convene over 5,000 delegates from 135 nations.
Highlighting the ICA Hackathon, Kirps underscored its significance as a platform for students to showcase innovative archiving concepts, all while gleaning insights from overseeing experts.
Founded in 1948, the ICA is committed to championing archive preservation and global accessibility. Kirps confirmed the ICA’s collaboration with entities like the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Blue Shield, and other global NGOs to provide training and elevate standards.
She commended the UAE’s meticulous preparations for the ICA’s current iteration, marking the first time an Arab nation hosts it. This, she believes, is a testament to the international community’s trust in the UAE’s capability to deliver an unparalleled edition of this esteemed event.
