MBZUAI President Eric Xing argued at the World Economic Forum in Davos that AI's next phase requires redesigning AI for real-world understanding and uncertainty, rather than just scaling models. He highlighted MBZUAI's unique position in building foundation models from scratch, emphasizing the importance of understanding their nuances, safety, and risks. Xing expressed skepticism about claims of general intelligence in current AI systems, pointing out their fragility and limited form of intelligence. Why it matters: Xing's participation highlights the growing role of Middle Eastern AI institutions like MBZUAI in shaping the global conversation around the future of AI.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have launched the Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies. The center will focus on Quantum Computing, Robotics, Propulsion & Space systems, and related AI applications. It will operate within WEF’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) Global Network. Why it matters: This partnership positions Abu Dhabi as a global hub for advanced technology research and strengthens the UAE's role in shaping the global technology agenda.
KAUST led a session at the World Economic Forum's Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, China, focusing on sustainability science. President Tony Chan and faculty members Peiying Hong, Mohamed Eddaoudi, and Derya Baran presented KAUST's research in water reuse, carbon capture, and transparent solar cells. Derya Baran highlighted KAUST spinoff iyris, which aims to turn windows into solar power plants. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's role as an innovative hub for global research and education, particularly in green technologies, and highlights the university's commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
Christopher Fabian, co-founder of UNICEF’s Innovation Unit, spoke at KAUST about using data and technology to improve lives. He highlighted how IoT and wearables can connect remote populations in developing countries with their governments. The talk emphasized using data to include unaccounted populations. Why it matters: The discussion reinforces KAUST's commitment to leveraging technology for global development and aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals for digital transformation.
Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University gave a keynote at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2022 on "resilience." He emphasized the need to end greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century through decarbonizing the energy system. Sachs highlighted the importance of science and technology solutions, especially in adapting to climate change. Why it matters: The talk underscores the importance of KAUST's research initiatives, such as the Circular Carbon Initiative, in developing technologies for carbon capture and utilization, aligning with Saudi Arabia's net-zero targets.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2024 focused on the theme "Digital Adventure – ride to the future," featuring lectures and activities related to machine learning, AI, and the future of technology. Speakers covered topics from quantum computing and robotics to smart cities and sustainable economies. Rick Fox discussed his company Partanna's work on revolutionizing concrete production with KAUST's Carlos Duarte as an advisor. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in fostering discussions around cutting-edge technologies and their impact on various sectors within the Kingdom and globally.
KAUST hosted a Global IT Summit. The summit featured speakers like Khaled Biyari, group CEO at the Saudi Telecom Company. Interviews from the summit are available on KAUST's official YouTube channel. Why it matters: The summit likely served as a forum for discussing IT trends and developments relevant to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.