- Charles Sturt University champions women working in artificial intelligence (AI) in the Asia Pacific region and rural and regional Australia
- The University sponsors a Women in AI award category – the AI in Agribusiness and Rural Development Awards – and a prominent Charles Sturt academic received an award for AI in cybersecurity at a women in AI forum in Sydney
- The university’s AI institute aims to provide bring value to communities outside urban areas and support regional and rural women working in AI
An artificial intelligence (AI) expert from Charles Sturt University has been recognised for her work on AI risks and cybersecurity at a recent international forum on women in AI in Sydney.
Women in AI’s mission is to close the gender gap in the field by increasing the representation and participation of women in AI.
The recent Asia Pacific (APAC) Women in AI Awards in Sydney, recognising, supporting and rewarding women in AI.
The University and its Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Future (AICFI) sponsored the AI in Agribusiness and Rural Development Award.
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the AI in Cybersecurity Award to AICFI Executive Director Charles Sturt, Professor Ganna Pogrebna (left photo).
The AI in Risk and Cybersecurity Award recognizes women who excel in AI cybersecurity, protecting digital domains with innovation, expertise and resilience in the face of evolving threats.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Professor Pogrebna. “My journey in cybersecurity grew out of my work on decision theory. and I never imagined that I would achieve such success in this field.
Professor Pogrebna said it was important to note that this success was a team effort, starting with the support she received from Vice-Chancellor Charles Sturt. Professor Renée Leon, PSM (pictured left, top) and deputy vice-chancellor (research) Professor Mark Evanswho encouraged her to lead AICFI and develop her ideas.
“This award goes to all First Nations, rural and regional residents. I work for you every day to improve inclusion and ensure that AI gives back to your communities. Finally, this recognition would not be possible without my incredible team at AICF, and the support of my family and a whole host of colleagues, co-authors, collaborators, mentors and role models,” she said.
Vice-Chancellor Charles Sturt Professor Leon attended the recent awards ceremony and presented the university-sponsored award.
For the second year in a row, Professor Leon presented the Charles Sturt AI in Agribusiness and Rural Development Award to an industry leader who also won the APAC Innovator of the Year award.
This year, both awards went to LYRO Robotics co-founder and CEO Dr Nicole Robinson, who is revolutionising the food supply chain through advanced robotics. She leads strategic direction and product development at LYRO and is an advisor to the National AI Centre.
“Charles Sturt University is proud to support regional and rural AI innovation,” Professor Leon said.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming society and it is essential that we support initiative and innovation that improves and protects our communities while creating a better world to live in..”
Last year, Ms Saba Samiei also won the Charles Sturt AI in Agribusiness and Regional Development Award and the Innovator of the Year Award.
“The Institute is committed to empowering communities outside of urban areas and we are proud to support regional and rural work in AI,” said Professor Pogrebna.
“It is gratifying to see that rural and regional areas remain at the forefront of the Women in AI agenda.”
