The MenaML Winter School, co-hosted by HBKU and QCRI, gathered 141 participants for an intensive program aimed at enhancing skills in artificial intelligence. Attendees engaged in lectures, practical sessions, and discussions on various AI applications. The initiative is supported by prominent sponsors and aims to cultivate local AI talent in the MENA region.
The MenaML Winter School, co-hosted by Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and MenaML, gathered 141 participants, including university students and industry professionals, for an intensive six-day program focused on enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) skills. The program included lectures, practical sessions, and panel discussions covering essential topics such as large language models, generative AI, and career opportunities within the Arab world.
The curriculum underscored the application of AI across various fields, including education, genomics, biology, and health, aligning with Qatar’s national objectives to advance these domains. Leading experts from renowned institutions, such as QCRI, Google DeepMind, and Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, facilitated the sessions, thereby contributing to Qatar’s evolution as a prominent knowledge hub in AI and computer science.
Dr. Ahmed K Elmagarmid, Executive Director of QCRI, remarked on the successful collaboration, emphasizing the partnership’s role in fostering AI talent relevant to both current and future industry needs. Participants engaged in professional development opportunities, including mentorship and networking sessions, as well as a poster session to present their research to peers and industry professionals.
The Winter School received substantial support from notable sponsors, including Google DeepMind, Google Cloud, and Apple, who interacted with students via booths, challenges, and feedback sessions. Community partners like MoroccoAI and inzva also played a significant role in enriching the event. The MenaML Winter School aims not only to develop future AI leaders but also to facilitate knowledge exchange and establish a robust community of AI practitioners in the MENA region.
The MenaML Winter School serves as a vital initiative in equipping the next generation of AI professionals with essential skills and fostering collaboration among participants and industry leaders. By aligning the program with Qatar’s national challenges in AI, the event enhances local capacities and contributes to the region’s advancement as a center for innovation and expertise in artificial intelligence.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
