Symposium Explores Translation And AI Technologies In Muscat

A symposium titled "Translation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" was organized today by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth in Muscat. The event focuses on the increasing use of machine translation tools and AI applications in the field of translation. It highlights how AI and human translators can work together to improve translation quality while preserving cultural meaning.

Three-Day Event At Literary Forum

The symposium is held at the Literary Forum in Muscat and will last for three days. It covers important themes such as the basics of smart translation technologies, differences between human translators and digital tools, methods to evaluate translation quality, and ethical and professional challenges that arise from using AI in translation.

Target Audience And Purpose

The event is aimed at translators, students, researchers, and anyone interested in translation and artificial intelligence. It brings together specialists, intellectuals, and professionals in an interactive environment. The goal is to encourage discussion about the future of translation, focusing on linguistic, cultural, ethical, and professional aspects in the age of AI.

Exploring Smart Translation Technologies

One of the key topics is the introduction of smart translation technologies. These include machine translation software, AI-based language models, and computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools. Participants will learn how these tools can support human translators, making the process faster and more efficient while maintaining quality.

Understanding Human And Machine Roles

The symposium emphasizes the differences between human translators and AI tools. While AI can handle repetitive and large-volume translations, human translators bring creativity, cultural understanding, and context awareness. Experts discussed how combining these strengths can enhance overall translation quality.

Quality Evaluation Methods

The event also focuses on ways to evaluate translation quality. Participants will learn techniques to measure accuracy, style, tone, and cultural relevance in translations. Experts highlighted the importance of continuous evaluation to ensure AI-generated translations meet professional standards and maintain cultural sensitivity.

Ethical And Professional Challenges

Al Qatabi and other experts discussed ethical and professional challenges in using AI. These include ensuring privacy, avoiding biased translations, protecting intellectual property, and maintaining professional standards. Participants explored ways to use AI responsibly while supporting human translators’ roles in the industry.

Hands-On Training And Workshops

Over the next two days, participants will attend practical training sessions led by Dr. Alaa Al Zahran, a specialist in interpreting studies. Attendees will gain practical experience with AI translation tools, learn to use CAT software efficiently, and develop skills in post-editing machine translations. These sessions aim to prepare translators for the evolving demands of the translation market.

Focus On Creative And Advertising Texts

The symposium also addresses the limitations of AI. Experts noted that creative texts, marketing content, and literary works often require cultural insight, tone, and creativity that AI cannot fully replicate. Participants will discuss strategies to combine AI efficiency with human expertise to produce high-quality translations in these fields.

Building On Previous Success

This symposium is the second edition, following the first event in May 2024 titled "Practical Practices in Translation," presented by Dr. Mohamed El Sharawy. The first edition received strong engagement and positive feedback from participants. Building on this success, the current event continues to strengthen knowledge bridges between culture and technology.

Strengthening National Competencies

The symposium aims to prepare national translators and language professionals to meet future challenges. It provides participants with knowledge, skills, and practical experience in using AI tools. Oman seeks to develop local expertise that can keep pace with technological advancements in translation and ensure professional standards are maintained.

Encouraging Dialogue And Collaboration

A key goal of the event is to create opportunities for dialogue among professionals, researchers, and students. Attendees can share experiences, discuss challenges, and propose solutions to improve translation practices in the AI era. This collaborative approach ensures that technological progress is balanced with cultural sensitivity and professional ethics.

Future Of Translation In AI Era

Experts discussed the long-term impact of AI on translation. While AI can handle large volumes of text quickly, human translators are essential for accuracy, context, and cultural understanding. The symposium highlighted that the future of translation lies in collaboration between humans and AI, where both complement each other’s strengths.

Promoting Innovation In Culture And Technology

By organizing this symposium, Oman demonstrates its commitment to integrating technology into cultural and professional fields. The event encourages innovation in translation, preparing professionals to use AI responsibly and creatively. It also promotes the development of solutions that respect cultural nuances while improving translation efficiency.

The "Translation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" symposium in Muscat is an important platform for exploring how AI and human translators can work together. It provides training, discussions, and practical experience to enhance skills, address ethical challenges, and promote cultural sensitivity in translation. Oman continues to support the development of national competencies in translation and the responsible use of AI in professional and academic settings.