Our Upcoming Speaker

Lifelong Learning With AI

On Wednesday, 8 May 2024, at 10.00 at the Strand Town Hall, Mr Christiaan Smit will unravel the intricacies of AI (Artificial Intelligence) for U3A members and visitors in a talk titled ‘Lifelong Learning with AI'.  Of the many mental leaps the generation of the mid-1900s has been required to master, AI may arguably be the most daunting, due perhaps to some serious mis- and disinformation regarding this technology that fuels reservations, aversion or even fear.

However, this may just be our opportunity to find out how we already use AI daily, for example, through our internet applications and how these and further developments may be able to help us. Conversely, do we now need to be more alert to possibly being scammed or misled by fake information?

Tiaan, as he likes to be known, is a director at Benchmark International, an international financial advisory firm. He is extremely keen to share his insights on the ability of artificial intelligence to change the way we conduct our lives. Besides a solid legal and business background, he is also a certified AI trainer with a deep understanding of the latest advancements in AI, and is skilled at simplifying complex ideas for a broad audience, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their AI knowledge, can grasp these concepts. His approach is rooted in practical experience.

His address will focus on the potential and limitations of AI and he will give practical guidance on how to use this responsibly and effectively to unlock its full value. He says that the audience can expect a clear and insightful explanation of how AI is transforming various sectors and the implications for the future.

Tiaan's education includes an MBA from the University of Cape Town and a stint at the Yale School of Management. He is a passionate learner who firmly believes that valuable lessons can be found in every interaction. He lives in Somerset West with his wife, Isabel, a high school Afrikaans teacher. They eagerly await the arrival of their first child.

Entry: U3A members are free of charge; visitors pay R20 at the door.

For further information from Denise Fourie (072 211 1172).