KAUST is launching the Lifelong Learning Initiative (LLI), offering short, hands-on courses in areas like cybersecurity, food security, and semiconductors. The inaugural AI courses, designed for those with basic coding skills, will start with a "Machine Learning Bootcamp" in Riyadh from May 10-12. The KAUST Artificial Intelligence Initiative (AII) is developing AI class material in partnership with SDAIA. Why it matters: This initiative will upskill Saudi nationals and residents in critical areas like AI, supporting the Kingdom's development objectives and mobilization of the labor market.
KAUST is expanding its Lifelong Learning Initiative, now called KAUST Academy, to meet growing demand for AI and machine learning training in Saudi Arabia. The Academy offers short courses and certificates in STEM fields, targeting both recent graduates and professionals. KAUST faculty and industry partners contribute to the program, which is free for Saudi nationals and residents. Why it matters: The KAUST Academy aims to upskill the Saudi workforce and support the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and 2050 goals by providing accessible, high-quality training in AI and other key areas.
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.
KAUST held its fifth annual KAUST Saudi Leadership Program (KSLP) in collaboration with the Haas School of Business of UC Berkeley. The 2018 KSLP edition included workshops and a six-day training course for 25 Saudi female academics in leadership and deanship positions. Participants reviewed strategic planning, team management, and effective executive leadership, and attended lectures by KAUST's senior leadership. Why it matters: Such programs contribute to developing leadership capabilities within Saudi academic institutions, fostering a stronger educational ecosystem in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
KAUST's Machinist Development Apprenticeship Program (MDAP) graduated its second cohort in August 2020, training Saudi nationals in advanced manufacturing technologies. The 18-month program provides in-depth training at the Workshops Core Lab in collaboration with Yanbu Industrial College. Graduates acquire skills to contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 in the manufacturing sector. Why it matters: This program addresses the need for skilled local talent in advanced manufacturing, crucial for diversifying the Saudi economy and achieving its Vision 2030 goals.
Saudi Arabia has launched a national program aiming to upskill 100,000 Saudi citizens in artificial intelligence. The initiative reflects the Kingdom's strategic focus on developing local AI capabilities. The program is viewed as crucial for achieving the goals of Vision 2030 and fostering a knowledge-based economy. Why it matters: Equipping the Saudi workforce with AI skills is essential for driving innovation and competitiveness in the region.
KAUST's Plant Science Program hosted a two-day workshop for early-career researchers, focusing on leadership and career development. The workshop, facilitated by Dr. Paul Dalby, covered grant proposal writing, leadership skills, and career planning. Participants also learned about project management, budget development, and attracting funding from various sources. Why it matters: Such programs enhance the skills of researchers at KAUST, preparing them for leadership roles in academia and industry, and fostering a stronger research ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
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.