Alat and KAUST to jointly deliver AI Training Program for top Saudi science and engineering students

Alat, the PIF company tasked with transforming global industries (electronics and industrials) and creating a world class manufacturing hub in the Kingdom, and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), today jointly launched the “ALAT-KAUST AI Training Program”. This comprehensive eight-week journey delves into state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The intensive AI program is designed for top bachelor’s degree holders, or those near completion, in the science and engineering fields in the Kingdom. Eligible male and female applicants for the program, which runs from June 23 until August 3, will be selected by a joint panel of Alat and KAUST.

Over the six weeks of in-class teaching, followed by online mentoring and a final week hackathon, students will gain knowledge and understanding of deep learning concepts and tools; acquire advanced skills in computer vision, including semantic segmentation, object detection (YOLO), and video classification. They will also develop proficiency in reinforcement learning algorithms, such as dynamic program, policy iteration, and value iteration methods.

By the end of the ALAT-KAUST AI Training Program – which also includes bootcamps and time at the prestigious Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford – participants will be well-equipped to tackle AI projects related to computer vision and reinforcement learning, contribute to research, and apply their knowledge to real-world AI applications.

Amit Midha, CEO at Alat, said: “We’re excited to team up with KAUST on this intensive program, which covers a wide range of topics, from advanced techniques in computer vision, to state-of-the-art in reinforcement learning and robotics. It’s a perfect example of how collaboration can help build the leaders of tomorrow, who will gain hands-on experience of innovative and dynamic AI tools, preparing them to tackle real-world AI challenges.”

Dr. Sultan Albarakati, Director of KAUST Academy, added: “Our collaboration with Alat marks a significant milestone in our mission to enhance the educational journeys of Saudi Arabia's brightest minds, specifically our esteemed alumni who have demonstrated excellence in KAUST Academy programs. By engaging these distinguished students in an advanced curriculum at Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford, we are not only deepening their comprehension of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, computer vision, and robotics, but also equipping them to be leaders in addressing real-world challenges. This partnership serves as a testament to our dedication to nurturing intellectual growth and fostering international collaboration, thus laying the groundwork for a future cohort of transformative leaders who will drive positive change on a global scale.”