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Launched in December 2024, the Responsible AI Research (RAIR) Centre is a collaboration between AIML, CSIRO's Data61, and the Government of South Australia.  The Centre’s four areas of focus include tackling misinformation, developing safe AI in the real (physical) world, creating diverse AI, and making AI that can explain its actions. 

One of the Centre’s most exciting and impactful initiatives created to address these four key areas has been the establishment of the RAIR Education and Community Outreach Program. Through a blend of workshops, presentations, and interactive sessions, the program seeks to educate the larger community on the countless opportunities that AI can bring to society as well as the importance of ensuring that the AI created is both ethical and responsible.

The Program is overseen by AIML Postdoctoral researcher and RAIR AI Education & Outreach Liaison, , who also co-developed the program.

“I have actively delivered AI literacy workshops and interactive sessions across a wide range of audiences—from primary school children and high school students to parents, local councils, and library communities,” said Dr Zou. “I believe that AI literacy is relevant to everyone’s future, not just to young people or those in the tech industry.”

“AI is already reshaping how we live, work, and connect—whether we realise it or not.”Dr Jinan Zou, AIML Postdoctoral researcher and RAIR AI Education & Outreach Liaison

As RAIR AI Education and Outreach Liaison, Dr Zou has developed tailored AI activities for students with autism, conducted public outreach events at several Adelaide-based libraries, has led council-based talks and AI workshops to raise awareness of AI, and co-developed a professional development course for educators. He believes that AI literacy programs benefit everyone of all ages.

“Many adults, especially older [people], often feel anxious or left behind in the face of rapid technological change,” he said. “But in truth, they too can benefit from understanding and engaging with AI—whether it’s making daily life more convenient, enhancing digital confidence, or simply feeling more connected and empowered.”

Dr Zou shared that some of his proudest moments with the program were hearing from older community members who’ve told him that after his workshop, they were no longer afraid of AI. He’s heard similar feedback from parents, teens, and many others with whom he’s connected.

“These experiences remind me why community engagement matters. It’s not about simplifying AI, but about making it accessible—so more people, across all ages and walks of life, can be part of the conversation,” he said.

The program’s beginnings

As interim Director of the RAIR Centre, AIML played an integral role in the development of the Education and Outreach program.

“The Community Engagement program began in 2024, when Jinan and I reflected on the future of people in a world increasingly accelerated and powered by AI,” said Professor Shi. “With the rise of tools like ChatGPT and the rapid transformation of entire industries, we saw a clear catalyst to rethink education, life itself, and even the deeper purpose of being human in this new era.”

“We aim to empower people to move beyond fear, to learn with curiosity, and to live fulfilling lives amidst the accelerated transformations driven by AI.”RAIR Centre Interim Director, Professor Javen Shi

RAIR Program Manager, Kate Klimeš, says that the program’s purpose from the very beginning has been fairly simple.

“The workshops presented by Dr Zou really do one thing – explain what AI is and what it is not,” she said. “The engagement this program provides helps [members of] the community understand what AI can and cannot do.”

Future goals

The RAIR Education and Outreach program has already made significant impact on members of the Adelaide community, and the team hopes this is just the beginning.

“I’d love for this program to be seen as a global leader, helping people understand and implement responsible AI,” said Klimeš. “It would be wonderful to collaborate with organisations, governments, and world leading voices to ensure that future AI development has a responsible and ethical component.”

Dr Zou noted that he’d like to see the creation of AI literacy programs targeted to underrepresented communities, including regional and remote schools, and families from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. He’s also interested in creating pathways for teachers so that they feel confident teaching AI concepts and integrating generative AI tools meaningfully in their classrooms.

“I’d love to see the RAIR Community Engagement program expand nationally over time, gradually reaching more communities across Australia through partnerships with schools, councils, and universities in other states,” said Dr Zou. “Adelaide, where the RAIR Centre is based, can continue to serve as a strong foundational team and a model for future collaboration.”