A National Celebration: Over One Million Citizens Empowered in Artificial Intelligence Through the "Samai" Initiative
The Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) have announced the successful implementation of the "Samai" initiative. This initiative, which aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, has successfully trained over one million citizens in artificial intelligence, providing them with certifications for their accomplishments. This important milestone highlights the increasing awareness of AI technologies within the Saudi community and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative government efforts to enhance the skills of the nation's youth.
A ceremony was held today at the Ministry of Education Theater in Riyadh, attended by His Excellency the Minister of Education, Mr. Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan; His Excellency the President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Al-Ghamdi; Her Excellency the Vice Minister of Education, Dr. Enas bint Suleiman Al-Issa; His Excellency the President of Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Dr. Ahmed bin Salem Al-Amri; His Excellency the Director of the National Information Center at SDAIA, Dr. Esam bin Abdullah Al-Wagait; along with several leaders and officials from the three entities.
His Excellency The Minister of Education delivered a speech on this occasion, expressing deep gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Highness the Crown Prince. He acknowledged their generous support and ongoing commitment to empowering Saudi nationals, highlighting their consistent directives to invest in the Saudi citizen, who serves as the foundation and central axis of development. He noted that, in alignment with this noble vision, the “Samai" initiative was launched, aiming to train one million Saudi citizens in artificial intelligence. This initiative represents a significant outcome of their support and a pioneering step toward preparing a generation capable of shaping the Kingdom's digital future.
His Excellency emphasized that the success we are witnessing embodies the integration of the Ministries of Education, Human Resources and Social Development, and the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA). This collaboration focuses on investing in individuals and enhancing their capabilities, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, which positions technology and innovation as pillars of sustainable national growth. He noted that the ministry has been committed since the initiative's launch to welcoming university and school students to participate in this significant national project and to acquire skills in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies that will prepare them for the future.
The CEO of the Capability Building Sector at SDAIA, Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, clarified that exceeding the target of training one million Saudi men and women through the “Samai" initiative demonstrates the success of its objectives. These objectives focus on enhancing citizens' understanding of data technologies and artificial intelligence, which are essential elements of modern life. Additionally, these technologies are vital in promoting a knowledge society and supporting the state's efforts to transition to a vibrant knowledge economy that prioritizes innovation and technology.
He noted that the “Samai" initiative, started by “SDAIA" with the help of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, is a great example of how different government systems can work together to improve skills and make data and artificial intelligence more effective. He emphasized that this achievement bolsters the Kingdom's global standing in developing digital capabilities and reflects its commitment to fulfilling the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, promoting sustainable and prosperous growth in our country.
The initiative attracted widespread participation from diverse regions of the Kingdom, with more than one million citizens registering. The demographic breakdown revealed that 52% of participants were women and 48% were men. Additionally, among the total participants, 70% were employed, while 30% were students.
The initiative showcases the effective and successful collaboration among the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). It focuses on investing in people as the primary driver of national development. This effort reinforces the Kingdom's status as a leading global nation dedicated to creating a prosperous future for its society. By developing the capabilities of its citizens and enhancing their digital skills, the initiative aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.