AURAK Launches Dh5 Million Advanced Tech And AI Center, Aiming At Future Job Creation

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) has inaugurated the Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Center (ATAIC). This new Information and Communications Technology (ICT) research facility operates under the School of Engineering and Computing. The launch coincides with AI's growing role as a major job creator worldwide.

The ATAIC boasts advanced technology including high-performance computing clusters, AI workstations, robotics kits, and IoT devices. With an investment of Dh5 million, this lab meets top standards for research and education in AI and Data Science. It provides faculty and students with cutting-edge resources for enhanced learning experiences.

The UAE Telecommunication and Regulatory Authority's ICT Fund supports ATAIC's mission to advance AURAK's goal of becoming a leading educational hub for innovation.

The ATAIC aims to promote excellence in AI and ICT education and innovation, addressing national challenges in these fields. The center engages in various activities such as research, business incubation, and training programs for schools and community entities. It covers key areas like Space Engineering, Cyber Security, IoT, VR, AI, and Image Processing.

Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success, and Provost at AURAK stated: "AURAK is happy to lead from the front by opening the Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Center on campus. Interactions with our students and feedback from the local industry have made it obvious to us that we need to launch these sorts of initiatives in order to boost the employability of our graduates."

"It is clear that AI is set to dominate every aspect of life, more so the job market. In just a short span, AI has had a profound impact on every aspect of life," said Dr. David A. Schmidt, President of AURAK. "We believe that universities need to be the prime movers in molding graduates who are in sync with the altered landscape through forward-looking initiatives and curriculum reset. Our Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Center represents a response to the need for integrating AI in every aspect of tertiary education."

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs survey (2023) found nearly half (49%) of companies plan to adopt AI for job creation. In contrast, only 23% expect it to displace jobs. The WEF report also predicts a 30-35% increase in demand for roles like data scientists, big data specialists, and business intelligence analysts over the next five years.

AURAK already offers programs in AI and ICT such as Bachelor of Science degrees in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering. Students in Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Civil Infrastructure Engineering can now minor in Artificial Intelligence.

The launch aligns with the UAE's National AI Strategy aiming to transform from 'AI ready' to 'AI leader.' By 2031, the UAE aims to generate up to Dh335 billion in additional growth through AI advancements.