The initiative was announced during an event AI Connect Which was held at the Etihad Museum in Dubai, in the presence of Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications in the UAE, and hundreds of government representatives, developers and entrepreneurs.
She said Google The announcement of the “Artificial Intelligence Opportunities Initiative” in the Middle East and North Africa comes in line with its commitment to the region, noting that it has trained three million people in basic digital skills since 2018, while the new initiative aims to empower 500,000 people in the first two years with the necessary skills. To use artificial intelligence and succeed in the digital age.
The “Artificial Intelligence Opportunities Initiative” in the Middle East and North Africa will focus on building skills, supporting research, providing related products, and supporting the infrastructure necessary for technological development.
Google also announced during the event that its charitable arm intends to provide $15 million between this year and the end of 2027 to ensure that everyone benefits from the potential of artificial intelligence.
According to a Google press release: “Recent research indicates the need to accelerate awareness of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to help more individuals compete in work environments and economies that rely on artificial intelligence.”
According to the Economist Impact report, the economic impact of artificial intelligence in the Middle East and North Africa is estimated to reach $320 billion by 2030.
Ruth Porat, President and CEO of Investment and Finance at Alphabet and Google, confirmed in a speech during the event that Google’s investments in the Middle East and North Africa region have contributed to helping individuals and companies acquire skills and be able to take advantage of digital opportunities.