The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched an initiative to enhance data and artificial intelligence skills among university students. This program engaged 215 students, representing 28 different Saudi universities, in comprehensive training modules. The objective was to equip participants with essential competencies in the rapidly evolving fields of data and AI. Why it matters: This initiative is crucial for fostering a skilled AI workforce in Saudi Arabia, directly supporting the nation's digital transformation goals and its broader Vision 2030 ambitions.
KAUST Ph.D. student Mohammed Aljahdali received the Best Paper award at the International Conference on Federated Learning Technologies and Applications (FLTA) 2025 for his research on federated learning. His paper, "Flashback: Understanding and Mitigating Forgetting in Federated Learning," introduces an algorithm to help AI systems retain knowledge across diverse datasets while preserving privacy. Aljahdali's research, supervised by Professor Marco Canini, focuses on training machine learning models directly on user devices. Why it matters: This award recognizes the growing talent and impactful research emerging from Saudi universities in the field of privacy-preserving AI.
KAUST and King Abdulaziz University (KAU) have signed an MoU to boost collaboration in education, research, and professional development. The partnership will focus on applying AI to medical and clinical fields, leveraging KAU's medical infrastructure and KAUST's AI expertise. The agreement also involves developing academic programs in marine sciences and creating joint training opportunities. Why it matters: This collaboration between two leading Saudi universities aims to strengthen the Kingdom's higher education ecosystem and drive innovation in key fields like AI and healthcare, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.
The KAUST Academy held a graduation ceremony for its third cohort of 300 students from Saudi universities. The academy partners with organizations like the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) and King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K.A.CARE). The KAUST Academy program includes virtual courses, intensive in-person training, and placements at leading global institutions. Why it matters: This initiative develops Saudi talent in critical areas like AI, cybersecurity, and renewable energy, contributing to the Kingdom's knowledge economy.
RDI and KAUST have launched a Technology Transfer Program to accelerate commercialization activities in Saudi universities. The Technology Transfer Internship Program aims to upskill leaders from research institutions across Saudi Arabia in technology commercialization. KAUST was selected by RDI due to its innovation ecosystem, including 1,448 patent families and 287 technology licenses. Why it matters: This partnership will help to translate Saudi research into commercial products, strengthening the country’s capacity for innovation and aligning with national goals for a knowledge-based economy.
KAUST Academy is launching training programs in AI, bioinformatics, and renewable energy to help position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in these fields. Over 1,500 students from Saudi universities will participate in the programs, which align with Saudi Vision 2030 goals. The programs are in collaboration with strategic partners like NTDP, the Al-Aqeel Foundation, KACARE, and the Saudi Women and Energy Association. Why it matters: The initiative aims to cultivate local talent and build a knowledge-based economy in Saudi Arabia, addressing future needs in critical technology sectors.
KAUST concluded the 10th edition of the KAUST Saudi Leadership Institute (KSLI), focusing on 'The Disruption Advantage' for academic executives. The program hosted leaders from Saudi universities and the Ministry of Education, providing seminars, coaching, and networking opportunities. This year's KSLI collaborated with the Thunderbird School of Global Management's Executive Education Team. Why it matters: KSLI strengthens educational leadership in Saudi Arabia, supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for a knowledge-based economy.
McKinsey & Company recognizes KAUST as a premier regional institution for research, innovation and advanced education. McKinsey conducted a digital workshop at KAUST to explore tech opportunities and challenges in Saudi Arabia, noting that 92% of companies see digitization as potentially disrupting their business models. KAUST students possess the skills and research experience to drive digital transformation in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: The partnership highlights the crucial role of Saudi universities in developing talent to meet the Kingdom's ambitious digital transformation goals.