RIYADH: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority is playing a key role in raising AI awareness through training programs with global partners, benefiting half a million young nationals. 

With a strong purpose and vision for the future, the authority, known as SDAIA, has charted a course toward progress, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to shape a brighter tomorrow for the Kingdom and its people. 

SDAIA’s efforts to enhance cognitive skills through short-term and long-term training camps and programs, established in collaboration with academic partners and global technical institutions, have reached over 590,000 beneficiaries. 

This has significantly raised awareness of AI in the country, while also helping teachers and the workforce optimize their use of data and technology to enhance professional performance. 

The body has affirmed its commitment to national service since its inception, aligning its focus on social responsibility as outlined in the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, according to the Saudi Press Agency. 

It has initiated impactful projects spanning diverse areas, such as enhancing the quality of life, environmental conservation, charitable efforts, and fostering awareness of data and AI technologies in society, according to SPA. 

Under the guidance of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who serves as the chairman of the board of directors of SDAIA, Saudi Arabia has secured the second position globally in AI societal understanding, according to the Stanford International AI Index 2023. This highlights the organization’s dedication to promoting awareness of data and AI technologies. 

Various projects have been implemented to support this vision, with a focus on increasing cognitive awareness and technological empowerment to align with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of transitioning to a knowledge society. 

These initiatives aim to cultivate the skills of young nationals, nurture their creativity in AI fields, and equip students of all ages with the necessary competencies to thrive in a technology-driven world. 

The authority has worked to promote knowledge dissemination about generative AI by engaging with universities and organizing knowledge forums, which bring together professors and students to enhance their understanding of these developments. 

Additionally, SDAIA has prioritized empowering women. The organization launched the world’s first program, “Elevate,” in collaboration with Google Cloud, aiming to train more than 1,000 females from over 28 countries in its first phase.