MBZUAI's President Eric Xing compares the current state of AI to the early stages of physics and chemistry, emphasizing the university's role in shaping the future of AI. He stresses the importance of addressing societal concerns and ensuring AI's trustworthiness, safety, and responsibility, advocating for AI researchers to engage with the community and uphold scientific principles. MBZUAI aims to foster a culture of innovation and contribute to the transparent and socially minded development of AI. Why it matters: This underscores the UAE's strategic focus on responsible AI development, positioning MBZUAI as a key player in guiding the ethical and societal implications of AI on a global scale.
An article in Forbes highlights the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) as the first university devoted exclusively to AI advancement. MBZUAI President Eric Xing champions a 'connectionism' approach, designing computational models inspired by interconnected human cognition networks. AI's ability to process and analyze data at high speeds unlocks new knowledge realms, acting as a universal translator between humans and the digital world. Why it matters: MBZUAI is positioned as a key institution driving AI innovation and responsible AI practices in the Middle East.
MBZUAI is launching a 12-week Executive Program to train UAE government and business leaders on leveraging AI. The program aims to equip decision-makers with skills to shape future industries, aligning with the UAE's AI ambitions. It will feature instruction from professors from Oxford, MIT, and Sinovation Ventures. Why it matters: This program signals the UAE's commitment to developing local AI expertise among leadership and realizing its economic goals in the sector.
MBZUAI launched its Executive Program, a hybrid course for government and industry leaders to promote greater engagement with AI. The program's first session, led by MBZUAI President Eric Xing, covered the history and future of AI and machine learning. It aims to accelerate AI development across various sectors in the UAE, focusing on efficiency, cost savings, and environmental impact reduction. Why it matters: This initiative signals the UAE's commitment to fostering AI literacy and driving AI adoption across key sectors, aligning with national economic development plans.
Michael I. Jordan, a renowned AI researcher from UC Berkeley, has joined Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) as a laureate professor and honorary director of the Laureate Faculty Program. MBZUAI President Eric Xing highlighted Jordan's significant influence in machine learning, noting his role as a mentor. Jordan aims to guide AI researchers and advise the university as it seeks to become a global leader in AI. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's position as a prominent AI research institution in the Middle East by attracting top-tier international talent and fostering a conducive environment for cutting-edge research.
MBZUAI has opened admissions for its M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in computer vision and machine learning for the Fall 2021 semester. The university previously extended offers to 100 students for its first academic year commencing in January 2021, drawing from 2,223 applicants of 97 nationalities. MBZUAI has also completed its Masdar City campus, secured accreditation, appointed faculty, launched webinars, and formed partnerships with organizations like Virgin Hyperloop. Why it matters: As the first AI-focused graduate university in the UAE, MBZUAI is positioned to develop AI expertise and drive innovation aligned with the country's industrial and economic goals.
MBZUAI board member Sir Michael Brady and Weizmann Institute's Shimon Ullman lectured in the fourth module of MBZUAI’s Executive Program on December 11. Brady led a session on 'Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Image Analysis,' while Ullman presented on ‘AI and Human Intelligence: Lessons From Computer Vision.’ The 12-week Executive Program aims to educate high-level decision makers in AI, supporting the UAE's AI leadership mission. Why it matters: Showcases MBZUAI's commitment to attracting top global talent and fostering AI education for leadership in the UAE.
MBZUAI has launched a series of monthly educational webinars called "MBZUAI AI Talks" starting July 7. These webinars will be led by MBZUAI faculty and leadership, and are open to the public via video conferencing. The talks will cover AI applications across healthcare, transportation, education, energy, and other sectors. Why it matters: This initiative helps to increase public knowledge and understanding of AI and its potential impact on various industries in the region.