HKBU hosts first AI-TEM 2026 conference on responsible AI communication
Hong Kong Baptist University held the inaugural AI-TEM 2026 conference from October 16 to 18, gathering over 200 international scholars to discuss ethical challenges of AI. The event, in partnership with Boston University, Korea University, and the University of Vienna, focused on extending responsi
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) hosted the first AI-TEM 2026: AI, Technology & Emerging Media international conference from October 16 to 18, gathering more than 200 international scholars, faculty, and graduate students. The event, organized in partnership with Boston University, Korea University, and the University of Vienna, focused on the theme of 'Extending Responsible AI Communication'.
Speakers and participants discussed ethical challenges posed by AI, including hidden inequalities, uneven adoption, and new forms of exclusion. Presentations and debates centered on how communication research can help build a more inclusive and socially beneficial future. Zhong Bu, Dean of HKBU's School of Communication, opened the conference by stating: 'The future of AI isn't just about technology, it is a human question. Engineers can tell us how efficient an algorithm can be, but only communication scholars can explain why society exists as it does.'
James E. Katz of Boston University highlighted the importance of international collaboration, noting that the four universities aim to promote freedom of inquiry and independent thought in the rapidly changing field of AI and media. The event featured keynote presentations from leading academics including Michael Chau Chiu-lung from the University of Hong Kong, Yang Sung-Un from Boston University, Jörg Matthes from the University of Vienna, Ingrid Bachmann from the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, and Jennifer Ihm from Korea University, offering global perspectives on AI, communication, and emerging media.
A highlight was an interactive session connecting students from several local secondary schools with international scholars. Students engaged in discussions on AI's ethical implications, its role in daily life, and future implications for the job market, bringing youth voices into the global debate on responsible AI. The conference also included research paper presentations and three specialized panel sessions.
The conference concluded with HKBU, Boston University, Korea University and the University of Vienna pledging to continue their collaboration and champion research into human-centered, socially responsible AI communication.