Raise your hand if you’ve gotten so familiar with some of your tasks at work that you can do them practically without thinking. Some rote tasks become seamless, yet others require certain skills to start with. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is all around us, often working behind the scenes, making our lives more convenient and efficient. 

AI is a multidisciplinary field combining computer science, mathematics, and domain-specific knowledge. A career in AI necessitates a diversified skill set combining technical acumen and flexibility.

According to consultancy firm PwC, AI will add more than $135 billion to Saudi Arabia’s economy in 2030, making up 12.4% of the gross domestic product (GDP.)  The kingdom’s goal is to expand AI fluency nationwide for inclusive growth.

Aligning with this, the kingdom’s National Program for Information Technology Development (NPITD) announced an initiative to train 1,000 skilled engineers in AI and machine learning and boost its information technology (IT) sector. 

The need is clear. Business leaders say new hires will require AI skills. Yet, most workers lack the capabilities to perform their current roles.

The program will establish a comprehensive AI innovation system, including infrastructure and capacity building, cooperation with industries and governments, and project development.

The initiative will also create more than 25 linguistic models in AI.

The program partners with the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

The Innovation By Design Summit is in Doha on April 24. Attendance at the summit is by invitation only. Delegates can register here to receive their exclusive invite.