Public evening: a Ghent University perspective on AI

Public Evening AI (EN) (large view)

(12-02-2026) Ghent University is brimming with AI expertise. Immerse yourself in it and broaden your horizons

Does AI make us smarter or more dependent? What does it mean for our jobs, our justice system and our language? Can it change our brains? And who actually decides what artificial intelligence can and cannot say or do?

Artificial intelligence raises many questions and at least as many expectations. As a knowledge institution, Ghent University wants to contribute to an open, informed and nuanced discussion about this technology.

On Wednesday evening, 4 March 2026, we are therefore organising an accessible public evening event at which researchers from various disciplines will share their expertise. They will clearly explain what the possibilities around AI are today, explain its impact on their field and place developments in a broader social context.

Do not expect doom and gloom or uncritical enthusiasm, but a nuanced and substantiated view of a technology that is helping to shape our society.

AI from different perspectives

During the evening, Ghent University experts will each give a short presentation from their own discipline. Together, they will demonstrate the versatility of AI research at Ghent University: from economics and law to linguistics, neuroscience and sustainability.

They will address questions such as:

  • Can the use of AI change my brain in the long term? (Professor Kristl Vonck)
  • Will robots soon mean that there is no more work for anyone? (Professor Amy Van Looy)
  • Who actually decides what AI can and cannot say? (Professor Tijl De Bie)
  • Can the success of AI accelerate the energy transition? (Professor Erik Mannens)
  • Will AI change our language? (Professor Orphée De Clercq)
  • Will we soon be able to leave our justice system to AI judges? (Professor Frederik Peeraer)
  • The Deceptive Genius. What René Descartes Has to Tell Us About AI. (Professor Ignaas Devisch)

For a wide audience

The public evening is aimed at students, staff and anyone who is curious about AI and its impact. Whether you are enthusiastic, critical or simply looking for more insight, this evening will broaden your horizons.

Participation is free, but registration is required. The number of places is limited. Register here!

Practical information

  • When: Wednesday 4 March 2026
    Doors open at 7 p.m. – starts promptly at 7.30 p.m.
  • Where: Faculty Library, Faculty of Political and Social Sciences, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 42, Ghent