On November 29th 2024, the Centre for Teaching and Learning at UBC Okanagan hosted a groundbreaking learning retreat exploring the intersection of generative AI and Indigenous knowledge. This event provided a meaningful space to engage in dialogue about the challenges and opportunities presented by AI while centering Indigenous ways of knowing, cultural integrity, and collaboration.
The retreat opened with a powerful panel discussion featuring Indigenous AI leaders, educators, and community members, who illuminated how AI interacts with traditional knowledge systems. We were grateful to host the following panelists: Brian Ritchie CEO of Kama AI, Craig Carpenter, director of Talking Owl Technologies, Hanna Paul Indigenous Research Facilitator at UBC Okanagan, Jon Harrison founder and CRO of Makwa7, Neil Glazenburg executive Vice president and Chief Technology Officer at Makwa7, Dr. Madjid Mohensi professor of chemical and biological engineering at UBC Vancouver, and Dr. Ramon Lawrence Department Head of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics at UBC Okanagan.
Themes of cultural appropriateness, environmental impact, care, relationality and respect were at the forefront, prompting us to reflect on the responsibilities we carry when engaging with both emerging technologies and Indigenous knowledge.
Following the panel, an engaging workshop led by Dr. Ramon Lawrence encouraged participants to consider their relationship with AI. Then, to co-create strategies for integrating generative AI in ways that prioritize relationality and cultural care. This collaborative space emphasized the importance of listening, humility, and the ongoing need to prioritize partnerships.
This retreat reminded us that the journey of integrating AI into educational spaces must remain anchored in ethical practices and the honoring of Indigenous sovereignty. We are grateful to all who participated and invite you to continue these conversations as we work collectively toward meaningful action. Let us remain committed to practices that uphold cultural integrity and foster relationships built on trust and respect.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible panelists for their time, insights, and willingness to share their knowledge. Your voices inspired us to think critically and to approach this work with care, accountability, and respect. Thank you for guiding these conversations and demonstrating the power of partnership in navigating the complexities of generative AI. Our deep gratitude to all of the attendees who shared their time, ideas, and questions with us. This event was special because of your collaboration and thoughtful dialogue.
As the organizers of this event, we would like to extend a special thanks to our incredible partners in planning and hosting this event: Adrienne Vedan, Heather Berringer, Ian Cull, Ian Foulds, Indigenous Advisory Council, Jannik Eikenaar, Krystal Withakay, Michelle Slade, Riley Petillion, Thivina Ratnayaka.
As the organizers of this event (Abir Cosyn, Jessica Bayer) we would also like share a video of the panel discussion, please visit the UBC Okanagan CTL YouTube channel.
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