“Computing Science in the Real World: Reflections on Two Projects,” 

Professor Eleni Stroulia, University of Alberta, Canada.

This keynote analyzed two applied computing projects with social impact and real-life implications.

“The Complex and Evolving Landscape of Bias and Fairness in AI",
Professor Irene Ntoutsi, University of the Bundeswehr-Munich, Germany.

This keynote focused on the intricate aspects of bias and fairness in artificial intelligence algorithms.

1. The panel entitled “Gender and Games: Avatars, Bias, and the Future of Play” explored critical issues about game design and digital gaming experiences through the lens of gender.  The discussion included issues of representation, avatar design, bias, and the future direction of the gaming field concerning gender equality.

The panel featured academics and creators from the academic and creative sectors.

Moderator: Elina Roinioti, Assistant Professor, University of the Peloponnese

Panelists:

- Iro Voulgari, lecturer at the Department of Early Childhood Education, specializing in educational use of games;

- Vivi Katifori, senior researcher at the Athena Research Center, who discussed interactive storytelling and accessibility in technology;

- Olga Chatzifoti, PhD candidate at the University of Athens and co-founder of Otter Space XR, contributing insights into virtual reality experience design.

- Sofia Neamoniti, architect and creative director of FaliroXR, with extensive experience in level and game design

- Spyros Papadimitriou, postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Informatics, University of Piraeus, who focused on ethics and codes of conduct in digital environments.

2. The panel entitled “Opportunities and Challenges for Women in Computing” examined prospects and barriers faced by women academics, researchers, and public administration members in the computing field. The panel featured prominent scientists and professionals aiming to explore the opportunities and obstacles for women in computer science.

Moderator: Maria Virvou, Professor, Head of the Gender Equality Committee of the University of Piraeus

Participants:

- Professor Eleni Stroulia, who shared her experiences from the Canadian research and technology field;

- Professor Irene Ntoutsi, an expert in artificial intelligence and fair machine learning;

- Associate Professor Maria Roussou, Chair of ACM-W Greece, who emphasized the importance of supportive communities and representation for women in research;

- Professor Maria Chalkidi addressed women’s participation in computer science research programs;

- Dr. Eleni Alogogianni, Director of Digital Governance at the Independent Authority for Labor Inspection, highlighted the administrative and institutional challenges in integrating women into the digital transition;

- Dr. Mersini Paschou, Deputy Director of Data and Business Analysis at HEDNO, shared her experiences from the industrial and technical energy sector.

3. An industry panel entitled “Rapid Technological Advances and Future Industrial Trends in Computer Science” discussed current developments and future directions in computing from the perspective of the job market and technological innovation. It featured experienced professionals from leading tech companies.

Moderator:  Ioanna Kantzavelou, Associate Professor, University of West Attica

Panelists:

- Ioanna Beka, Head of International Professional Services Operations at Unisystems, spoke about international challenges and demands in delivering technological solutions;

- Kleoniki Lytra, senior project manager with extensive experience in the IT and telecommunications industries, representing Netcompany, analyzed the importance of managing complex projects in rapidly changing environments;

- Stavros Fotiadis, Head of Cloud Solution Engineering for Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Malta at Oracle, presented advancements in cloud infrastructure and their role in shaping the technological future.