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In all the talk about the mismatch between the projected number of tech jobs and the talent to fill those positions, we’re losing sight of the big skills gap under our fingers every day.

Most jobs require technology skills, such as AI and data analytics. Yet many lack skills. No wonder the gap is poised to create a war for talent 

As interest in large AI models — particularly large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT-3 — grows, Saudi Arabia has announced a new training program for recent graduates in technical specializations to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary for this rapid adoption of LLMs.

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has launched a series of training programs designed to educate participants on the latest advancements in technology, specifically AI. 

The initiative involves 32 camps that focus on LLM technology, with the first camp on October 8 to be hosted virtually over four weeks. The topics covered include generative AI, neural networks, deep learning, and text data analysis. 

At the end of each camp, the trainees will receive certificates of completion and be eligible to take professional certification exams related to LLMs.

On another note, the authority has also announced an Open Datathon Competition, which will be held over two days from October 26 to 28 in Riyadh and aims to improve skills and talents in data technologies in the Kingdom. Data science experts will supervise participants; competitors will present their solutions to judges on the third day.