SDAIA And KFUPM Announce Scholarships For Master's In AI To Foster National Talent

The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) have introduced the Artificial Intelligence Pioneers Initiative. This initiative offers scholarships for master's degrees in AI and related fields through the university's Professional Master's Program MX Program. The goal is to develop skilled national professionals in AI to meet labour market demands and support the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and achieve a score of 6 on the IELTS test or 70 on the TOEFL, except for KFUPM graduates or those from accredited universities outside the Kingdom. Additionally, they need to submit two recommendation letters and a statement of purpose detailing their professional and research objectives.

SDAIA and KFUPM will fully fund scholarships for eligible citizens who meet the university's admission criteria. The covered programs include "visual computing, quantum computing, unmanned aircraft systems, the Internet of Things and embedded systems, robotics and autonomous systems, and smart city sustainability." This initiative aims to boost national data and AI skills.

Interested candidates can apply by visiting http://mx.kfupm.edu.sa and registering through http://apply.kfupm.edu.sa between August 5 to 11, 2024. The program seeks to build a generation proficient in AI technologies to achieve Vision 2030 goals.

Through this initiative, SDAIA aims to enhance national data and AI competencies. It also focuses on developing national capabilities to lead the labour market with various promising programs and activities. The initiative is designed to train professionals in AI specializations essential for future job markets.

The program emphasizes creating a workforce capable of leveraging artificial intelligence technologies. This aligns with the broader objectives of Vision 2030, which seeks to transform various sectors within Saudi Arabia using advanced technologies.

By participating in this program, students will gain expertise in cutting-edge fields such as quantum computing and smart city sustainability. These areas are crucial for the Kingdom's development plans under Vision 2030.

The Artificial Intelligence Pioneers Initiative represents a significant step towards building a technologically advanced workforce in Saudi Arabia. It underscores SDAIA's commitment to fostering national talent in AI and related fields.

This initiative not only addresses current labour market needs but also prepares Saudi professionals for future technological advancements. It ensures that the Kingdom remains at the forefront of AI innovation globally.

Overall, this scholarship program is a strategic move to equip Saudi nationals with the necessary skills to drive economic growth through technology. It reflects a forward-thinking approach to education and workforce development in line with Vision 2030.

With inputs from SPA