Paula Kelly (from TU Dublin) and Dr Emma Clarke (from ADAPT Centre at DCU) travelled to Rome on 26-29 May 2026 to present The Spirit of Radio at the DARIAH Annual Event 2026 where the theme couldn’t have been more relevant, as the event was exploring the direct involvement of people in research.

The Spirit of Radio is a vintage-style radio that brings Artificial Intelligence (AI) into familiar devices, co-developed with older people through our Age-Friendly AI events where people could try out the AI demonstration and share their thoughts on it.

This year’s DARIAH conference theme, “Building Infrastructures of Engagement” aligns with the Age-Friendly AI project mission. We are working alongside communities across Ireland to create entry points into AI discussions that feel accessible and don’t need any prior knowledge on the topic or experience with AI to join in. A huge thank you to everyone who braved the heat & a strike to stop by and interact with The Spirit of Radio.

Magnifica Humanitas – The Pope on AI

In the Eternal City this same week, Pope Leo XIV published his encyclical Magnifica Humanitas on Artificial Intelligence and what it means for humanity.

AI seems to be the topic of conversation on an international level and in many different areas of life. This acts as a reminder of the importance of dialogue about the technology and to ensure many, diverse voices are part of the conversation.

Read Magnifica Humanitas here.