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05/10/2026
A University of Greater Manchester professor met with the newly-appointed government Minister for AI to discuss the future of artificial intelligence in both work and society.
Professor Celestine Iwendi, Head of the University’s Centre of Intelligence of Things (CIoTh), talked with Kanishka Narayan at the Fabian Society's Festival of Ideas 2026 in Liverpool.
Mr Narayan is the UK's first cabinet-level Minister for Artificial Intelligence. His portfolio spans AI policy, strategy, innovation, research infrastructure, and economy-wide adoption.
He engaged with Professor Iwendi during the ‘AI and Good Growth in Every Region’ session, which is anchored to Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s vision of good growth in every postcode.
Mr Narayan agreed to participate in the ‘November to Remember’ Parliament programme next month, alongside the 2026 President and CEO of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Mary Ellen Randall.
Professor Iwendi said: “The conversation was substantive and touched on AI and the future of work, skills development, responsible innovation, regulation, and the practical application of AI across industry and society.”
The event brought together senior figures from industry, technology, academia and policy, to discuss how artificial intelligence can support productivity, reshape skills and employment and deliver wider societal value.
Representing CIoTh alongside Professor Iwendi was Emmanuel Edim Associate Researcher and VP, IEEE Student Branch; Sharon Emmanuel, Researcher, CIoTh and Temienor Philip-Neris Nikatsekpe, Visiting Associate Researcher, CIoTh.
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