Administrative Divisions Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications
Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Can Machines Justify Their Decisions? Prepared by: Programmer Sara Saadoun Abbas Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications – Al-Mustaqbal University Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) has triggered a significant transformation across various sectors, from healthcare to security, and from education to financial services. However, as the use of deep learning algorithms and complex models expands, a new problem has emerged: the opacity of AI decisions. End-users—and sometimes even developers—often do not understand how or why an AI system made a specific decision. This has led to the emergence of a crucial new field: Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), which seeks to make machine behavior more transparent and understandable to humans. Definition of Explainable AI Explainable AI refers to a collection of methods and techniques designed to clarify how intelligent models reach their results or decisions, in a way that is comprehensible to humans. Explanation techniques may focus on the model as a whole (model-wide explanation) or on specific decisions (local explanation). This field is particularly vital in systems that deal with sensitive decisions such as: Disease diagnosis Loan approvals or rejections Criminal record assessments A lack of interpretability in these domains could lead to loss of trust or even legal accountability. Key Techniques in Explainable AI Some of the most commonly used tools and methods in this field include: LIME (Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations): This technique approximates a complex model with a simpler, interpretable one around a specific prediction to provide localized explanation. SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations): Based on game theory, SHAP distributes the "importance" of each feature that contributed to the final decision of the model. Attention Visualization: Commonly used in neural networks, this approach highlights which parts of the input data the model focused on during decision-making. Ethical and Legal Challenges Explainable AI faces several ethical and legal challenges, including: Trade-off between interpretability and accuracy: Simpler models are often more interpretable but may lack the predictive power of complex models. Risk of manipulation: Explanations can be used deceptively to justify unfair or biased models. Privacy concerns: Some interpretability methods may unintentionally reveal sensitive data. These challenges are closely linked to sustainable development goals, particularly Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), where explainable AI contributes to digital justice and transparency. Real-World Applications Many institutions have begun integrating XAI techniques into their systems, including: Using SHAP to validate recommendations in medical diagnostics. Applying LIME in financial institutions to justify credit decisions. Implementing interpretability tools in crime classification systems to avoid racial or social bias. Conclusion Explainable AI is no longer a luxury or theoretical concept—it has become a practical and ethical necessity. In the near future, it will not be acceptable to deploy AI systems that cannot be understood, especially in areas that affect human rights and lives. With ongoing research, we are approaching a future where intelligent systems not only make accurate decisions but also explain them, promoting trust, accountability, and human-machine collaboration. Al-Mustaqbal University – The Top Private University in Iraq
The visit of Prof. Dr. Sherif Youssef Khater, President of Mansoura University – Egypt, to Iraq concluded with a series of high-level meetings at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The meetings were held under the patronage of H.E. Minister Dr. Naeem Al-Aboudi, who delegated Advisor Prof. Dr. Alaa Abdul Hassan to receive the guest. Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, accompanied his guest during the visit and participated in the discussions, which highlighted the outcomes of joint academic activities and the ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive academic partnership between the two universities. The Egyptian delegation was received by several ministry leaders, including Deputy Minister for Administrative Affairs Prof. Dr. Adnan Al-Jumaili, Director General of the Research and Development Department Prof. Dr. Lubna Khamis Mahdi, and Director General of the Private University Education Department Prof. Dr. Fares Mahdi. At the beginning of the meetings, Prof. Dr. Sherif Khater presented an overview of Mansoura University, noting its global reputation and academic excellence. He expressed admiration for Al-Mustaqbal University’s impressive infrastructure and institutional progress, affirming his readiness to engage in advanced scientific cooperation. Advisor Prof. Dr. Alaa Abdul Hassan welcomed the guest and conveyed the greetings of H.E. the Minister, emphasizing the Ministry’s full support for international academic collaboration. Other ministry officials echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of launching joint research projects, academic conferences, and workshops to foster meaningful collaboration. In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi expressed sincere gratitude to the Minister and Ministry leadership, noting that the visit of the Mansoura University President marks a significant step in Al-Mustaqbal University’s internationalization strategy. Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Private Universities in Iraq.
Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications – Al-Mustaqbal University is pleased to invite you to the 5th session of the UNESCO Cairo Office’s AI & Culture Webinar Series: Artificial Intelligence and UNESCO Conventions for the Protection of Cultural Property in Emergencies 📅 Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Cairo Time) 🔗 Zoom Link: Join the webinar 🔒 Webinar ID: 815 5152 1310 🔒 Passcode: 937752 Speakers: • Dr. Amr Al-Azm – Shawnee State University • Dr. Primo Zingaretti – Università Politecnica delle Marche • Dr. Marina Paolanti – University of Macerata • Dr. María-Ángeles Fuentes-Loureiro – University of A Coruña 💬 Discussant: Dr. Asmaa Mehdioui – ICESCO 🎙️ Chair: Dr. Nuria Sanz – Director, UNESCO Regional Office for Egypt and Sudan 🔻 This event aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: 🎯 Goal 4: Quality Education 🎯 Goal 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure 🎯 Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities 📌 Al-Mustaqbal University – The Leading Private University in Iraq
On the occasion of Iraqi Engineer’s Day, Prof. Dr. Nidhal Khdhair Al-Abbadi, Director of Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, extends heartfelt congratulations to all engineers across Iraq, in recognition of their vital contributions to shaping the future and advancing the nation’s industrial and infrastructure development. The center’s staff also expresses their deep appreciation for the engineering community, which represents a cornerstone of innovation and technological progress, reaffirming their essential role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in industry, innovation, and smart infrastructure. 🌟 Al-Mustaqbal University – The First Among Private Universities in Iraq
Dear Engineers, Esteemed Colleagues, Greetings and warm wishes to you all, On the occasion of Iraqi Engineer’s Day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and deep appreciation to every engineer who has contributed to the journey of innovation, progress, and development in our beloved Iraq. Engineering has always been a cornerstone in the advancement of civilizations and a pillar of sustainable development. You, the engineers of Iraq, have proven yourselves to be capable, visionary, and a true reflection of the creative Iraqi mind that transforms challenges into opportunities. At Al-Mustaqbal University, we take great pride in the achievements of our engineering students, graduates, and faculty members, whose efforts continue to enrich our community and drive the nation's growth. On this special day, we renew our commitment to empowering Iraqi engineers and supporting their vital role in building the future of our country. Wishing you continued success, prosperity, and excellence. With my utmost respect and admiration, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi President of Al-Mustaqbal University Al-Mustaqbal University — the top private university in Iraq
In line with its efforts to enhance academic openness and foster international partnerships, Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, welcomed a high-level delegation from Mansoura University in the Arab Republic of Egypt, headed by Prof. Dr. Sherif Youssef Khater, President of Mansoura University, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Tarek Mostafa Ghalwash, Scientific Assistant to the University President. The reception was attended by several members of the University Council, deans, and directors of academic and administrative departments, reflecting the depth of fraternal and historical ties between the two universities. Following a brief welcoming reception, a joint meeting was held and opened with a speech by Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, who expressed his delight at this academic visit, highlighting its significance in reinforcing the existing agreement between the two institutions. The agreement includes multiple areas of mutual interest in higher education and scientific research. For his part, Prof. Dr. Sherif Khater expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Al-Mustaqbal University for their warm hospitality, affirming Mansoura University’s readiness to activate joint cooperation frameworks and expand academic partnerships between both sides. The agenda included a documentary film introducing Mansoura University, along with a presentation of Al-Mustaqbal University's key achievements and milestones. The two parties discussed several key areas, including: Mechanisms for activating the signed Memoranda of Understanding between the two universities Proposals to host specialized postgraduate programs from Mansoura University Professional training and capacity-building programs in partnership with Al-Mustaqbal University’s Continuing Education Center Collaboration between corresponding research centers and sharing expertise in quality assurance and academic/programmatic accreditation Cooperation in international rankings, academic reputation, and participation in scientific journal editorial boards Joint efforts toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals The meeting also witnessed active participation from Prof. Dr. Nidhal Khdhair Al-Abbadi, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications. At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties agreed on a set of important decisions that would ensure the achievement of shared goals and open new horizons for scientific collaboration between the two universities. Al-Mustaqbal University – The Leading Private University in Iraq
As part of strengthening academic and cultural cooperation between Egypt and Iraq, Prof. Dr. Sherif Khater, President of Mansoura University, announced during his visit to Al-Mustaqbal University in Iraq the provision of free two-week training opportunities for Al-Mustaqbal students during the upcoming summer break. Program Highlights: Free accommodation and housing in the Mansoura University campus for the entire training period. The program targets students from medical colleges (Human Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy), as well as students from Engineering, Science, and Physical Education. Students from other disciplines interested in exploring the Egyptian academic environment are also welcome to participate. Key Benefits: Fully-funded training in a distinguished academic environment. Exposure to advanced educational and research systems at Mansoura University. Promotion of academic exchange aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Application Process: Details about registration and eligibility will be announced soon through the official platforms of both Al-Mustaqbal University and Mansoura University. Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Prof. Dr. Sherif Khater for this initiative that strengthens mutual academic ties. Both universities encourage interested students to take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to gain valuable academic and practical experience at one of Egypt’s leading institutions. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First Among Private Universities in Iraq
The Center of AI Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University is pleased to invite you to attend the 5th session of the UNESCO Cairo Office’s AI and Culture Webinar Series, titled: "Artificial Intelligence and UNESCO Conventions for the Protection of Cultural Property in Emergencies" 🗓️ Date: Tuesday, 27 May 2025 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Cairo Time) 📍 Platform: ZOOM 🔑 Join here: Join the webinar 🔒 Webinar ID: 815 5152 1310 🔒 Passcode: 937752 📌 Featured Speakers: Dr. Amr Al-Azm – Shawnee State University Dr. Primo Zingaretti – Università Politecnica delle Marche Dr. Marina Paolanti – University of Macerata Dr. María-Ángeles Fuentes-Loureiro – University of A Coruña 🔸 Discussant: Dr. Asmaa Mehdioui – ICESCO 🔸 Chair: Dr. Nuria Sanz – Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for Egypt and Sudan 🟢 This session explores the application of AI technologies in the context of the 1954 and 1970 UNESCO Conventions, promoting cultural protection during crises. The event aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals related to cultural preservation and innovation. 📣 We encourage academics, researchers, and AI/culture enthusiasts to join this insightful discussion. 📍 RSVP here: RSVP Form 🟦 Al-Mustaqbal University – The Top Private University in Iraq