Indian Consul General calls for balance between humans, technology
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Jeddah: Indian Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri has called for maintaining a strong balance between technological progress and core human values. He stressed that the future belongs to those who can blend innovation with empathy.
Speaking at the valedictory session of the “Talent Lab Season 3” upskilling workshop, held at the International Indian School-Jeddah (IISJ) Boys’ Section, Suri said that even in an era driven by artificial intelligence, automation and machine learning, humans will remain irreplaceable.
“Technology must work with humans, not against them”, he said.
“A successful and happier future belongs to those who can create harmony between technology and humanness. Only humans can care and empathize — not machines".
The one-day workshop, organized by the Goodwill Global Initiative (GGI) in association with the Consulate General of India and Effat University, carried the theme “Humans vs. Machines: The Pathway to Success and Happiness in the Tech-Driven Era”.
More than 200 Indian students from international schools across Saudi Arabia’s western region participated in the event.
Suri also outlined four key principles, character, creativity, curiosity and collaboration, as essential traits for success in life and in navigating a tech-driven future.
The valedictory session was chaired by GGI President Hassan Cheruppa, with distinguished guests including Dr. Ashraf Amir, CEO of International Medical Center and President of the Saudi India Healthcare Forum and Dr. Reem Al Madani, Dean of Effat University.
Felicitation speeches were delivered by Dr. Mohammed Imran, Principal of IISJ; Mohammed Alungal, President of Abeer Medical Group; Ashraf Moideen, Director of Jeddah National Hospital; and Jaza Fathima, a student participant. GGI General Secretary Ishaque Poondoli welcomed the gathering, while Treasurer Jaleel Kannamanagalam proposed the vote of thanks.
Motivational addresses by Dr. Marwan Dashash, former Toastmasters governor and Asker Ali Khan, Toastmasters speech champion, inspired students to pursue their ambitions and passions. A special session, “Discourse with a Doyen,” featured insights from Dr. Ashraf Amir and Dr. Jemshith Ahmed, Vice President of Abeer Medical Group.
Two interactive sessions on artificial intelligence were key highlights of the day. Dr. Fidaa Abed and Dr. Omar Alzoubi from Effat University led the session “Meet Your Digital Partner: Understanding AI in Everyday Life”, while Dr. Zain Balfaqih and Dr. Nema Salem presented “Tech with a Heart: Smart Machines, Smarter Choices".
The Consul General presented mementos to the resource persons and sponsors. GGI officials, including Kabeer Kondotty, Sadiqali Thuvvur, Abu Kattupara, Jessy Zubair, Ayisha Ruksana, Fathima Thasni, Shibna Backer, Sulfiker Mapplilaveettil and Noushad Thazhatheveettil, also spoke on the occasion. Shamna P.M. served as the anchor for the event.