By Ntsizi “Oscar” Mphenduli, Senior Laboratory Technician, University of Fort Hare, South Africa

Jet Lag Day at ART@SC24 – A Glimpse of Georgia Tech

On November 15, 2024, ART@SC24 kicked off with its signature “Jet Lag Day,” an engaging day designed to immerse attendees in the innovation hub of Georgia Tech. Here’s a look at the highlights from this fascinating prelude to the main workshop.

Introduction and Orientation

The day began with a warm welcome and logistics briefing by Elizabeth Leake and Bryan Johnston, setting the tone for a full schedule of discovery and collaboration. Participants were introduced to Georgia Tech’s role in the high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) landscape.

Sessions and Tours

1. OMSCS Showcase:
The Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) program at Georgia Tech took center stage. Highlights included:

• A historical overview of the program.
• Insights into African participation and international collaborations.
• Personal stories from OMSCS alumni, sharing experiences of balancing academics, work, and family.

2. Technical Tours and Showcases:
Attendees explored cutting-edge facilities, including:

• AI Makerspace and the CRNCH Lab, showcasing HPC in action.
• Robotarium, an interactive lab for robotics enthusiasts.
• PACE CODA Datacenter, home to advanced computing systems.

Interactive Highlights

The day wasn’t just about presentations. Hands-on experiences and engaging discussions provided valuable insights, leaving attendees inspired to integrate HPC and AI into their work.

Closing and Preparation for the Workshop

The day ended with a logistical briefing for the main ART@SC24 workshop, ensuring attendees were well-prepared for the deep dive into global innovation.

Jet Lag Day at ART@SC24 was more than a tour—it was an energizing start to a weekend of breakthroughs in science and technology. Stay tuned for more on the ART@SC24 workshop!

Exploring HPC at SC24: Five Standout Exhibits

The grand opening of SC24 was a spectacle of innovation, collaboration, and exploration. Among the vast array of exhibits, a few stood out for their transformative impact on high-performance computing (HPC). Here’s a closer look at five standout exhibits from sessions, including the HPC Ecosystems Project, which is shaping the future of computational capacity in Africa.

1. HPC Illuminations Pavilion: HPC Ecosystems Project

Presented by Lara Timm from the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC), this exhibit highlighted how decommissioned Tier-1 supercomputers are being repurposed to bolster research and education in Africa. The project has equipped institutions across Southern Africa with computational resources while training the next generation of HPC practitioners. The initiative exemplifies how recycling technology can empower communities and drive scientific breakthroughs in regions often underserved by technology.

2. Exascale Computing: A Leap Towards Unprecedented Computational Power

This exhibit showcased the advancements in exascale systems, capable of performing quintillions of calculations per second. The focus was on how exascale computing is revolutionizing fields such as climate modeling, genomics, and artificial intelligence. The exhibit also emphasized the challenges of scalability, power consumption, and software development, making it a must-see for those interested in the future of computing.

3. AI-Driven HPC: Merging Machine Learning with Supercomputing

This exhibit explored the convergence of AI and HPC, demonstrating how machine learning algorithms are being optimized for HPC systems to solve complex scientific problems. A highlight was the use of large-scale GPU clusters to train deep learning models, enabling applications ranging from autonomous vehicles to drug discovery. Attendees gained insights into emerging AI frameworks and their integration with HPC infrastructure.

4. Quantum Computing: The Next Frontier

One of the most futuristic exhibits, this session focused on the potential of quantum computing to redefine problem-solving in HPC. Exhibitors discussed quantum algorithms, current challenges in hardware development, and potential breakthroughs in cryptography, optimization, and material science. The exhibit provided a glimpse into how quantum technology may eventually complement classical HPC systems.

5. HPC for Good: Environmental and Social Impact

This exhibit underscored the role of HPC in addressing global challenges, from climate change to disaster response. Projects leveraging HPC for real-time data analysis in extreme weather forecasting and biodiversity conservation were showcased. It was a reminder of the power of technology to effect positive change, making it one of the most inspiring stops of the day.

Final Reflections

SC24’s exhibits were a testament to the transformative potential of HPC across industries and disciplines. From enhancing computational power to fostering inclusivity and sustainability, these projects underscore the importance of innovation and collaboration. Exhibits like the HPC Ecosystems Project demonstrate how technology can bridge gaps and create opportunities for growth, making SC24 not just a conference, but a movement towards a better-connected and more capable world.