Hosted by King's College London, this half-day event focuses on the transformative role of data in research, policymaking, and innovation. Bringing together researchers, policymakers, educators, and data professionals, the symposium discusses the significance, challenges, and opportunities associated with the National Data Library - a UK government initiative aiming to generate greater benefit from public data.

Invited talks will delve into the limitations imposed by outdated infrastructure and systems, which can hinder effective data sharing and use, and discuss the role the National Data Library will play in updating this landscape. Sessions will also examine the pressing need for robust data privacy measures to protect sensitive information in an increasingly digital and AI-driven landscape. Furthermore, equitable access to data is emphasized as vital for ensuring inclusivity and fostering societal advancements. We will also explore how AI technologies could enhance data utility while navigating these challenges.

The event will culminate in a panel to propose actionable solutions for modernizing systems, safeguarding privacy, and promoting fair access – and how this should inform implementation of the National Data Library initiative. In all, participants will develop perspectives on how to shape and make use of the National Data Library for public benefit - both at King's and beyond.

The event is organised by the King’s Centre for Data Futures, demonstrating its commitment to addressing critical barriers and empowering research, policy development, and AI-driven progress for the benefit of society.

Agenda

· 1 – 1:30 pm: Arrivals, coffee

· 1:30 – 1:45 pm: Welcome from the organisers

· 1:45 – 2:15 pm: Keynote

· 2:15 – 2.55pm: Invited talks 1: Data governance, Privacy & data quality

Talks including the Open Data Institute discussing AI-ready data

· 2:55 – 3:15 pm: Coffee break

· 3:15 – 3:35 pm: Invited talk 2: Data sources & Infrastructure

· 3:55 – 4:45 pm: Panel: National Data Library use cases and domains

· 4:45 – 5:00 pm: Concluding remarks from the organisers

(Further speakers to be announced)