KAUST ·
Dominique Sciamma, Managing Director at Strate School of Design in France, gave a presentation at KAUST during Enrichment in the Fall of 2017. The title of the presentation was "From Descartes to Morin." The event was held at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. Why it matters: While the event is dated, KAUST's ongoing enrichment programs contribute to fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge exchange in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST ·
KAUST has launched REVelate, a corporate innovation program aimed at mid and senior management of Saudi-based companies. The four-month program includes lectures, workshops, and mentoring to develop projects important to the participating companies. It is designed to foster an 'intrapreneurship' culture and enhance the innovation capacity of KAUST industry partners. Why it matters: This initiative addresses a critical need for corporate innovation methodologies in Saudi Arabia, potentially boosting the performance and competitiveness of local companies.
KAUST ·
KAUST is expanding its REVelate corporate innovation workshop into a larger "Innovation Academy" program. The program targets Saudi-based companies, nonprofits, and government organizations. It aims to develop novel processes, design thinking, and intrapreneurship to benefit their missions and support the Kingdom's knowledge economy. Why it matters: The expansion signals KAUST's growing role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within Saudi Arabia's corporate and public sectors.
MBZUAI ·
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 ·
MBZUAI, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi School of Government, held an ‘AI for Leadership’ training course for government sector leaders. The four-day course was designed by AI experts at MBZUAI to equip leaders with the knowledge to leverage AI applications. The course supports the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and aims to diversify the economy and improve government services. Why it matters: The initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to building a thriving AI ecosystem by empowering government leaders to apply AI in their organizations.
KAUST ·
KAUST is offering a 16-month Master of Science degree in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE). The program includes a six-month internship at a Global Technology Innovation Hub. KAUST provides access to facilities like the Prototyping and Product Development Core Lab, robotics and embedded systems labs. Why it matters: The program aims to prepare students for roles in technology startups and established organizations within the rapidly growing Saudi innovation ecosystem.
KAUST ·
The Maker Space self-directed group at KAUST promotes DIY culture and provides training on using machines, tools, and materials. In March 2017, Maker Space launched the "Design for KAUST" workshop in collaboration with the University’s Residential Maintenance Department. The winning teams in the workshop received sponsorship, including a total of SAR 10,000 in prizes, a Local Impact Award and an opportunity to test the prototypes in the field. Why it matters: This initiative fosters innovation and problem-solving within the KAUST community, addressing practical challenges in daily life through technology and promoting local impact.
MBZUAI ·
Nobuyuki Umetani from the University of Tokyo presented a talk on using AI to accelerate simulations and optimization for 3D shape designs. The talk covered interactive approaches integrating physical simulation into geometric modeling. Specific applications discussed included musical instruments, garment design, aerodynamic design, and floor plan design. Why it matters: This highlights growing interest in AI techniques at MBZUAI and across the GCC for streamlining engineering design and simulation processes.