KACST Forms Key Alliances To Propel AI And Semiconductor Sectors In Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, SPA – In a significant move towards advancing technological innovation, the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has announced the formation of three strategic partnerships at the LEAP 2024 technological conference. These collaborations are set to foster the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and bolster the semiconductor industry within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

One of the key partnerships announced involves KACST and SenseTime Middle East and Africa, focusing on the localization of emerging technologies. The collaboration aims to create a joint center of excellence dedicated to generative and general AI. This center will engage in various activities including research, project development, training human capabilities, and providing solutions for both public and private sectors. Additionally, it will conduct market research, develop products, and design training programs in the AI field.

In an effort to localize the semiconductor industry, KACST has entered into a strategic partnership with CDT International Limited. This collaboration seeks to enhance the Kingdom's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, train human resources in electronic chip design and localization, and provide electronic chip design programs for staff at Saudi universities. The partnership also aims to attract funding for research and development and support collaboration between industries and sectors, aligning with the objectives of the Saudi Semiconductors Program (SSP).

Further supporting the semiconductor sector, KACST has partnered with Stalyorvf Technologies. This partnership focuses on electronic chip design, talent building, development of high-speed wireless communications, silicon semiconductor sensing solutions, and employment and training of technical human resources to support semiconductor growth in the Kingdom.

Enhancing Cooperation in Applied AI

On the sidelines of the LEAP 2024 conference, KACST President Dr. Munir Al-Desouki met with Scott Benbirti, Director of Applied AI at Google. Their discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in applied AI within genomics, healthcare, and astrophysics. The goal is to facilitate technology transfer and localization as well as strengthen the innovation system to address national challenges.

The initiatives announced at LEAP 2024 underscore KACST's commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of technological innovation. By establishing strategic partnerships in AI and semiconductor industries, KACST aims to develop critical sectors that are essential for the Kingdom's technological advancement and economic growth.

With inputs from SPA