Special Interest Group on the African Network for Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Imaging

Mission

The primary mission of the Special Interest Group on the African Network for Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Imaging (SIG-AFRICAI) is to connect researchers and all stakeholders interested in MICCAI related research in Africa, and to increase research output and activities at MICCAI addressing real-world challenges and applications within Africa. To this end, we will regularly organise discussions, exchanges of ideas and results, webinars and training events, mentorship and other MICCAI related activities for Africa. All researchers and stakeholders from all over the world, including within and outside Africa, are welcomed to join the SIG-AFRICAI. We look forward to collaborating with you to address medical imaging challenges that will enhance access to healthcare across the African continent and beyond.

Goals

• Foster Collaboration among African and International Researchers:
       ○ Connect African and international researchers, postdocs, students, residents, AI developers, innovators, radiologists, other clinicians, and institutions working in the field of AI for biomedical imaging applications.

• Boost African Participation at MICCAI:
       ○ Increase the number of African researchers participating in MICCAI, by raising awareness and supporting submissions to MICCAI and its satellite events.
• Enhance availability of African Medical Image Datasets:
       ○ Support initiatives such as challenges that will provide access to curated and public real-world medical image datasets from Africa.
• Enhance Access to Educational Opportunities:
       ○ Organize and support tutorials, workshops, and summer schools to encourage increased participation from Africa in MICCAI events.

Activities

Ongoing

• AFRICAI Webinars (https://africai.org/category/seminars/)
       o Regular webinars to engage the African research community and promote knowledge sharing in AI for biomedical imaging.

• MICCAI Meets AFRICA Workshop at MICCAI 2024 – October 6, 2024
       o A dedicated workshop focused on fostering collaboration between African researchers and the MICCAI community.

• From MICCAI to AFRICAI Session and Networking Event – October 9, 2024
       o A session to discuss African-specific challenges and gather suggestions on bridging MICCAI and AFRICAI initiatives.

See the SIG-AFRICAI poster that was displayed at MICCAI 2024