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Amid the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) stands as a beacon of progress and innovation. On the third day of the Global AI Summit in Riyadh, SDAIA announced a series of strategic agreements designed to propel Saudi Arabia into a new era of AI-driven development and excellence. These partnerships are set to enhance national talent, drive AI research, and integrate cutting-edge technologies across various sectors. This article delves into the specifics of these agreements, examining their potential impact on Saudi Arabia and the broader AI community.
Arabic AI Advancements: Launching “Balsam”
In a significant stride towards enhancing Arabic AI models, SDAIA, in collaboration with the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, introduced the “Balsam” index. This pioneering initiative aims to evaluate and improve Arabic AI models, aligning with the rapid advancements in natural language processing (NLP). The “Balsam” index is a vital tool for assessing the maturity and applicability of these models, ensuring they meet evolving AI demands.
Conceived in 2022, the “Balsam” project has matured into a comprehensive endeavor, supported by extensive data collection and model development. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of refining Arabic language models, facilitating the integration of advanced AI capabilities while preserving linguistic heritage and fostering technological advancement.
SDAIA’s efforts to compile an AI and data glossary in Arabic and English further demonstrate its commitment to increasing awareness and understanding of AI technologies, bridging knowledge gaps, and encouraging innovation in the region.
Strategic Partnerships: Empowering AI Talent
SDAIA’s strategic alliances with global technology leaders such as Huawei, Red Bull Mobile, and Oracle mark a transformative phase in Saudi Arabia’s AI landscape. These partnerships focus on talent development and technological innovation, setting the stage for future advancements.
The collaboration with Huawei is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to establish a robust training program for Saudi professionals, equipping them with cutting-edge skills in information technology and AI. This initiative not only empowers the next generation of tech leaders but also positions the Kingdom as a hub for AI excellence.
Similarly, the partnership with Red Bull Mobile Saudi Arabia focuses on organizing specialized workshops and training sessions to enhance AI competencies. This knowledge exchange will bolster AI expertise and facilitate the exploration of emerging trends, keeping both entities at the forefront of technological advancements.
Oracle’s collaboration emphasizes raising public awareness and enhancing national skills in AI and data science. Through joint programs and initiatives, this partnership aims to deliver comprehensive training, awarding professional certificates that prepare participants for a data-driven economy.
Cultural Innovation: Merging Technology with Tradition
SDAIA’s alliance with the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, known as “Wirth,” signifies a unique intersection between technology and cultural preservation. This strategic partnership aims to leverage AI technologies to promote traditional arts, safeguarding cultural heritage while fostering creativity.
By utilizing AI, the collaboration seeks to revolutionize the archiving and documentation of traditional arts, ensuring their preservation for future generations. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader cultural objectives, highlighting technology’s role in enabling the arts and promoting a vibrant cultural landscape.
Moreover, this partnership underscores SDAIA’s commitment to supporting local artisans, providing them with tools to showcase their talents globally. By integrating AI into cultural initiatives, SDAIA not only preserves tradition but also cultivates an environment conducive to cultural innovation and creative expression.
Building an AI Ecosystem: National and International Collaborations
Central to SDAIA’s strategic vision is the creation of a comprehensive AI ecosystem, exemplified by the national initiative (AI.M) launched during the summit. In collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Program (NTDP), the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), this initiative aims to build a robust framework for AI innovation in Saudi Arabia.
The initiative’s three-pronged approach focuses on applied research, capacity building, and company formation, providing fertile ground for AI-driven solutions. By fostering partnerships between public and private sectors, academic institutions, and startups, the initiative seeks to accelerate AI advancements and align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.
Additionally, the establishment of the Center of Excellence in AI for Education, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and other educational bodies, highlights SDAIA’s dedication to integrating AI into educational frameworks. This center aims to leverage AI technologies to enhance educational outcomes, supporting educators and students through innovative tools and methodologies.
SDAIA’s strategic agreements during the Global AI Summit mark a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s AI journey. By fostering collaborations with industry leaders, enhancing Arabic AI capabilities, and merging technology with cultural initiatives, SDAIA is paving the way for a future where AI is seamlessly integrated into every facet of society. These efforts position Saudi Arabia as a leader in AI innovation, contributing to the global discourse on the transformative power of artificial intelligence. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to reshape industries, empower communities, and drive sustainable development both within the Kingdom and beyond.
Source: SPA
