Artificial Intelligence/Big Data/Text and Data Mining Webinar 2022

Introduction

The recent webinar on artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and text and data mining (TDM) brought together experts and participants to explore the intersections of these crucial topics. With a focus on the Kenyan context, the discussions delved into the potential, challenges, and legal considerations surrounding AI and TDM, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to protect creativity while fostering innovation.

Keynote Address

The webinar opened with a brief introduction of Angeline Wyrecki, a research fellow at the Center for Intellectual Property and Information Technology, who provided an overview of AI in Africa. She highlighted that the African AI ecosystem is still in its infancy compared to regions like the US and Europe. Although there is a budding interest in AI, much of the technology and datasets are sourced from abroad. This dependency raises the challenge of lack of digital infrastructure and resources, particularly in rural areas.

Panel Discussions

Professor Sean Flynn

Sean Flynn, associate director of the Program on Information Justice and Intellectual Property, presented an international perspective. He emphasized the importance of balancing copyright law with the right to research. Innovations such as the use of AI in predicting health crises like COVID-19 were cited as examples of AI's potential. Flynn also discussed the legal framework surrounding TDM and how existing copyright laws can either facilitate or obstruct research efforts.

Legal Perspectives from Faith Omondi

Faith Omondi from KECBO added to the discussion by presenting the challenges facing AI-generated works within the framework of Kenyan copyright law. She examined the complexities of determining authorship and ownership in works generated by AI, especially when traditional definitions of authorship may not apply. Omondi proposed the idea of sui generis protections that might better meet the needs of AI innovations.

Insights from SIPIT

Cynthia Nduku and Mitchell Ondi provided further insights from SIPIT. They outlined the gaps in legal frameworks regarding TDM in Kenya and the importance of establishing clear definitions around scientific research and orphan works. The discussion underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to education on data usage, especially for researchers engaging with TDM.

Closing Remarks

Teresa, representing the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), concluded the webinar by summarizing key points and emphasizing the importance of collaboration and ongoing dialogue. She suggested developing guidance for researchers and librarians in Kenya on the use of copyright law in AI and TDM.

With great appreciation for the speakers and participants, the session highlighted the need for continued advocacy in the fields of AI, copyright, and data accessibility.

Keywords

Artificial Intelligence
Big Data
Text and Data Mining
Copyright Law
Research
Digital Infrastructure
Kenya
AI Ecosystem
Sui Generis Protection
Orphan Works

FAQ

Q1: What is the current state of AI in Africa?
A1: The AI ecosystem in Africa is still developing compared to the US and Europe, primarily relying on imported technology and datasets.

Q2: How does copyright law impact AI-generated works?
A2: Copyright law raises questions of ownership and authorship, especially for works created by AI, as traditional definitions may not fit.

Q3: What are the legal gaps in Kenya regarding text and data mining?
A3: Current laws lack specific provisions for TDM, and there is a need for clearer definitions around scientific research and orphan works.

Q4: How can we improve data literacy regarding AI and copyright?
A4: There is a strong need for awareness programs and educational frameworks to inform stakeholders about their rights and responsibilities in these domains.

Q5: What recommendations were made for future legal frameworks?
A5: Suggestions include adaptive fair use principles, expanding fair dealing exceptions, and exploring sui generis protections specifically tailored for AI technologies.