SDAIA's Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi Discusses Capacity Building Initiatives Aimed At Empowering Saudi Workforce With AI Skills

In a recent discussion at the Global AI Summit (GAIN Summit), Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, the General Supervisor of Capacity Building at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), elaborated on the commitment to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the Saudi workforce. This initiative aims to foster an environment where technology not only complements but enhances human capabilities.

During an interview with Argaam on the sidelines of the summit, Dr. Al-Ghamdi announced that SDAIA is set to launch a slew of programs and initiatives designed to equip various sectors with the skills needed to wield the latest AI technology efficiently and ethically. "These initiatives are centered on training individuals not just in AI utilization but also in understanding AI ethics, privacy risks, and intellectual property rights to mitigate bias and improve the efficacy of AI applications," he cited.

Highlighting the efforts towards refining professional capabilities, Dr. Al-Ghamdi referenced the National Occupational Standard Framework for Data and AI, introduced by SDAIA last February. The framework aims to guide training and capacity building towards meeting the demand for AI-centric professions in the labor market. "This framework helps entities pinpoint jobs and the associated tasks which are crucial in the regularization of AI jobs and related skills," he added.

Moreover, Dr. Al-Ghamdi discussed the launch of the Saudi Academic Standards for Artificial Intelligence Framework, aimed at guiding national universities in developing AI programs tailored to labor market needs. This initiative ensures alignment with global best practices prevalent in advanced AI study hubs.

Despite widespread concerns over AI potentially displacing jobs, the World Economic Forum suggests a brighter outlook, projecting that AI could generate up to 97 million new jobs. “This transformative potential of AI underscores the importance of raising awareness and early adoption of AI in professional settings to capitalize fully on the emerging markets and job opportunities,” Dr. Al-Ghamdi explained.

Dr. Al-Ghamdi’s insights underscore SDAIA’s proactive approach in bridging the gap between current competencies and the future requirements of an AI-driven marketplace, ensuring that the Saudi workforce remains at the forefront of technological advancement and innovation.