Natural disasters are one of the greatest challenges of our time. Artificial Intelligence can play a key role in their prevention and management—provided that there are people with the right skills.

In response to this need, Science for You – SciFY, building on the UNESCO-awarded program ‘Pioneers for AI’, in collaboration with Democritus University of Thrace, developed the project ‘AI Pioneers in Natural Disasters’, with the support of the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation.

Who is the Program intended for?

The prevention and management of natural disasters require interdisciplinary collaboration: environmental scientists, managers, and psychologists each have distinct yet complementary and important roles to play. For this reason, final-year students and recent graduates from relevant fields can register for free and get started right away!

How is AI changing the landscape?

Artificial Intelligence can contribute to:

• predicting extreme events
• coordinating response operations
• assessing and managing impacts and damages

… and much more!

However, making the most of its potential requires advanced skills and interdisciplinary collaboration. This is exactly what the project aims to foster, addressing a significant gap in Greece.

From theory to practice

The project aims to provide free online training to 100 students and graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, who will gain practical knowledge of Artificial Intelligence with applications in natural disasters. Following the training, 30 students will take part in hands-on challenges in Xanthi, working on real-world problems under the guidance of researchers from Democritus University of Thrace.

At the same time, a network of organizations and scientists will be developed, creating a strong foundation for collaboration with highly promising outcomes.

The courses are available online!
The courses have been developed by distinguished scientists with extensive experience in Artificial Intelligence and natural disasters. Interested final-year students and graduates can start the online courses by registering at https://ai-pioneers-natural-disasters.scify.org/.

The aim of the program is to cultivate a new generation of scientists who can combine Artificial Intelligence with fields such as environmental sciences, engineering, and crisis management, and collaborate effectively to help strengthen societal resilience.

The program “Pioneers for AI in Natural Disasters” is implemented by Science For You – SciFY and Democritus University of Thrace, with the support of the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation.