In a significant leap towards fostering a tech-savvy generation, Saudi Arabia has clinched the second position globally in societal awareness of Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to the 6th edition of the Artificial Intelligence Index report from Stanford University in the United States.
The remarkable achievement is attributed to the resounding success of ATHKA, the national programming, and AI Olympiad, reflecting an unparalleled surge in awareness among Saudis.
ATHKA enrollment breaks records: A testament to rising AI awareness
The ATHKA Olympiad, aptly named “smarter,” has surpassed expectations with a record-breaking enrollment of students from over 10,000 middle and secondary schools across the Kingdom. This surge is a testament to the heightened awareness among Saudis regarding programming techniques and artificial intelligence.
The ATHKA initiative, spearheaded by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), stands as a national initiative aligned with the goals of Vision 2030.
Success attributed to SDAIA’s strategic efforts and partnerships
The overwhelming response to ATHKA underscores the success of the strategic efforts undertaken by the SDAIA in collaboration with key partners, including the Ministry of Education and Mawhiba. The Olympiad aims to shape a generation adept at handling programming and AI, aligning with the broader objective of Vision 2030 to build human capabilities and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the field.
Global recognition: Saudi Arabia’s high societal awareness of AI
The global recognition of Saudi Arabia as the second-ranking nation in societal awareness of AI, as reported by Stanford University, is a clear reflection of the proactive measures taken by the SDAIA. Since its establishment in 2019, the authority, under the guidance of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been committed to raising awareness in the fields of data and AI, positioning the Kingdom on the path to global leadership.
To stimulate participation in ATHKA, the “Road to ATHKA” event gathered over 10,000 male and female students, fostering a competitive spirit and enthusiasm for the Olympiad. Additionally, the “Artificial Intelligence Hour” initiative, a training program on AI concepts, reached a staggering 575,000 male and female students. The program, actively involving 9,700 male and female teachers, played a pivotal role in demystifying AI and preparing the younger generation for a tech-driven future.
Industry sponsorship and future prospects
Exclusive sponsorship from the Saudi Technology and Security Comprehensive Control Co. Ltd. (Tahakom) has significantly bolstered ATHKA, emphasizing the private sector’s commitment to nurturing talent in data and AI. The initiative represents one among several national projects championed by the SDAIA to cultivate human capital in these critical fields. With a forward-looking approach, ATHKA aims to equip young minds with the skills necessary for global competitiveness and excellence.
As Saudi Arabia achieves global recognition for its societal awareness of AI, propelled by the ATHKA Olympiad and SDAIA’s strategic initiatives, the Kingdom is poised for a bright future in data and artificial intelligence. The resounding success of ATHKA not only sets a benchmark for other nations but also exemplifies the transformative power of educational initiatives in shaping the technological landscape of a nation.
In a rapidly evolving digital era, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building a generation proficient in programming and AI aligns seamlessly with its overarching Vision 2030 goals, positioning the Kingdom as a frontrunner in the global technological landscape. The ATHKA Olympiad, with its record-breaking enrollment and industry support, stands as a beacon of success in the Kingdom’s journey towards becoming a global powerhouse in data and AI.
