Can AI solve everything? In a thought-provoking conversation at Alliance University, Director Pao-Ann Hsiung (AI Center, National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan) offers a powerful reminder:

“Many people start solving a problem without knowing what the real problem is—and that’s the biggest problem.”

This interview goes beyond technology and returns to a deeper question: what human challenge are we truly trying to solve? Key takeaways include:

Problem-First Approach: Using AI and CCTV-based systems not merely for surveillance, but to protect fishermen’s labor rights and safety, proving technology can serve the public good.

Federated Learning: Tackling bandwidth and privacy constraints in smart cities through decentralized, edge-based learning.

Systems Thinking: Moving beyond isolated “silos” to build integrated platforms where AI systems can communicate, coordinate, and support better urban decision-making.

Trustworthy AI: Why engineers must work closely with social scientists and policy experts to strengthen privacy, transparency, and accountability.

Technology evolves best when it’s not about chasing the next hype—but about addressing the layered complexities of our world.

Watch the full interview here: