Minister of Education: The future of artificial intelligence is based on humans
His Excellency the Minister of Education and Chairman of the Board of Directors of King Saud University, Professor Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan, affirmed that the real equation in the development and future of artificial intelligence technologies does not lie in the technological development of the machine alone, but rather depends radically and pivotally on the human capabilities that manage and develop these technologies.
This came during his opening speech at the "International Conference on Capacity Building in Data and Artificial Intelligence," where His Excellency stressed the need to change the traditional view of dealing with technology, calling for the use of artificial intelligence technologies as human beings as contributors, creators and developers, and not just consumers, with the aim of raising the societal and economic efficiency of countries.
Artificial intelligence and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The Minister of Education's statements come at a time when Saudi Arabia is witnessing unprecedented technological and knowledge-based advancements in line with the goals of Vision 2030. The Kingdom is placing great emphasis on the data and artificial intelligence sector, spearheaded by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), with the aim of establishing itself as a global hub for technology and innovation. Investing in human capital is the cornerstone of this national strategy, as the Ministry of Education strives to align its educational outcomes with the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Linking education to the future job market
Al-Bunyan explained that the conference is based on three main pillars, all aimed at linking the education system with modern employment pathways. He pointed out that the current challenge is not a scarcity of jobs, but rather their changing nature, which necessitates preparing a generation capable of using advanced digital tools. He affirmed that the conference will witness concrete practical steps, including the signing of agreements and the launch of innovative initiatives that meet global and local needs in this vital sector.
Economic and social impact
This vision holds significant strategic importance both domestically and internationally. The shift towards a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy requires a workforce highly skilled in data analysis, programming, and artificial intelligence. This approach is expected to contribute to boosting GDP, creating quality job opportunities for Saudi youth, and improving quality of life through smart city applications and innovative digital services that rely primarily on human capital.
