The 36th edition of the International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024) has brought together researchers around the world to explore the role of robotics in achieving sustainable development goals.
Running from Monday to Friday in UAE's Abu Dhabi, the IROS 2024 presents various events including forums and workshops under the theme of "Robotics for Sustainable Development". Visitors can also find smart robots in the exhibition area performing all kinds of tasks from making drinks to playing soccer.
Khalifa University, the organizer of this year's convention, brought the IROS to the Middle East for the first time in the event's 36 years run.
"Our planet is under increasing threats, from more population, from habitat destruction, pollution, many, many areas. So I think robotics and AI, they are at the forefront of trying to solve these challenges and to address the sustainability development issues. And we are very, very proud to be hosting this event now," said Dr. Lakmal Seneviratne, director of the KU Center for Robotics and Autonomous Systems at Khalifa University.
IROS 2024 explores robotics' role in sustainable development
A total of 3,000 volunteers are providing services at the ongoing 136th China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, offering significant convenience to visitors to the trade fair.
Among the volunteers are university students majoring in Russian, Spanish, Arabic and other languages, helping to provide visitors with assistance in their native tongues.
In total, 100 volunteer service stations have been set up at the entrances and exits of the exhibition halls, parking lots, bus stations and other locations to assist visitors.
International visitors indicated that the service stations helped improve their experience at the fair, and volunteers said they were delighted to assist them.
"Most of the visitors speak English. There are also some speaking Russia. They often inquire about where to get the entry certificates, or ask for translation service. Our main role is providing guidance to them," said Li Hongkun, a volunteer.
The fair will be held in three phases between October 15 and November 4 and is set to include 55 exhibition areas covering 1.55 million square meters.
Launched in 1957 and held twice yearly, the Canton Fair is considered a major gauge of China's foreign trade.
3,000 volunteers serve at Canton Fair, boosting convenience for int'l visitors
