How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 

Special How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 
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Updated 28 June 2024
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How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 

How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 
  • The Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh will soon teach Saudi students how to design and code their own apps
  • Students at the all-female school will learn how to build, train, and deploy machine learning models across Apple devices

RIYADH: Saudi designers and entrepreneurs are making bold strides in the field of artificial intelligence, helped along by training schemes, mentors and new technologies provided by some of the world’s leading tech companies.

Silicon Valley heavyweight Apple recently unveiled a new program to train students to use the latest emerging technologies, creating opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s tech-savvy workforce of the future.

The Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh is among the institutions that will implement this training. Not only is it the first in the Middle East and North Africa region — it is also the only all-female academy of its kind in the world.

“Our mission is to empower female developers in KSA and the region, with skills for the tech jobs of tomorrow,” Ohood Al-Nayel, director of the Apple Developer Academy, told Arab News.




Ohood Al-Nayel. (Supplied)

“We aim to pioneer new frontiers in education. By empowering more women to be leaders in technology, we hope Saudi Arabia can become a hub for AI research, entrepreneurship and development in the region.”

Established as part of a collaboration between Apple and Tuwaiq Academy, the scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program, 330 for “The Foundation” four-week program, and 50 for its second-year visionary program. 

Scheduled to launch this autumn, the new custom-built core curriculum will teach students and alumni how to build, train and use machine-learning models across Apple devices.

“We have three goals,” Al-Nayel said. “The first is to teach our developers to always use and advocate for use of native tools like Xcode, Swift, and Apple frameworks, as this is important for iOS and app development. 

“Our second goal is to produce local Arabic apps that apply accessibility. Our final goal is not just to teach our learners how to code, but to instill in them a passion for lifelong learning and give them the tools to drive meaningful change. 

“We want our graduates to leave equipped with both strong technical skills and an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit that can transform any industry.”




The scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program. (Supplied)

Courses will include the fundamentals of AI technologies and frameworks, core machine learning and its ability to deliver fast performance on Apple devices, and guidance on how to build and train AI models from the ground up.

Students will learn from a guided curriculum and project-based assignments that include assistance from hundreds of mentors and more than 12,000 academy alumni worldwide.

With a focus on AI, learners will be able to apply the latest technology to fields as diverse as healthcare, education and transport.




With a focus on AI, learners will be able to apply the latest technology to fields as diverse as healthcare, education and transport. (Supplied)

Although the curriculum is yet to begin, students are already incorporating AI models to innovate the app market. 

One example is the “Artector” app, developed by Farah Al-Amri, Lujain Yahya, and Baynah bin Hathlin for art lovers who are visually impaired.

They found that the application programming interfaces of a current AI model contained biases and did not reflect the true nature of a given artwork. The team therefore trained their own AI model to better analyze art and describe it using a voiceover feature. 




The scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program. (Supplied)

The app functions as a visual tour guide, Al-Nayel said, providing an accessible auditory alternative.

“Users can explore various artworks and gain insights into their historical context, artistic techniques and symbolic meanings by accessing detailed descriptions either by reading or listening,” she said.

“This app enhances the art appreciation journey, enabling users to engage with and comprehend art pieces more effectively.”

Other apps include “PiClean,” which helps students clean up their surroundings and enhance environmental awareness, and “iSpeak,” which helps people conquer their fear of public speaking and communicate more clearly. 

By encouraging this kind of innovation, the academy wants students to learn important skills to contribute to local businesses and communities, and increase opportunities for developers, designers and entrepreneurs to build the growing iOS app economy.

“Our curriculum is agile and customized yearly based on feedback from regional industry leaders so learners gain skills that are applicable in the Saudi job market,” said Al-Nayel. 

The latest technologies and application programming interfaces unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference — WWDC24 — in San Francisco earlier in June offered students access to powerful new tools. 

Xcode 16, for instance, raises the bar in developer productivity. New features and performance improvements like Swift Assist streamline coding tasks and encourage students to explore new frameworks and innovate freely.

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Swift 6 also introduces enhancements designed to improve code clarity and simplify concurrent programming.

“At Apple, we see coding as a universal language and believe in empowering developers, creators, and entrepreneurs across the world with tools and technologies that will allow them to create phenomenal experiences,” Susan Prescott, vice president of developer relations at Apple, said in a statement.

“With the introduction of a curriculum dedicated to AI and other new technologies we introduced this week, we’re excited to see what students will build to share with their communities and the world.”

The new core curriculum will be provided to thousands of students and alumni across 18 developer academies in six countries — Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia, Italy, South Korea and the US.
 

 


KSrelief assists persons with visual challenges in Morocco, Afghanistan

KSrelief assists persons with visual challenges in Morocco, Afghanistan
Updated 7 min 2 sec ago
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KSrelief assists persons with visual challenges in Morocco, Afghanistan

KSrelief assists persons with visual challenges in Morocco, Afghanistan
  • The projects are a part of the Saudi Noor Voluntary Project

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency, KSrelief, has been assisting people with visual challenges in Morocco and Afghanistan, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The projects are a part of the Saudi Noor Voluntary Project, according to the SPA.

In Morocco’s Boulemane, KSrelief’s team examined 5,120 individuals, distributed 1,050 pairs of spectacles, and performed 482 specialized operations between Oct. 24 and 31.

In Afghanistan’s Kabul, the volunteers, in cooperation with the World Sight Foundation, examined 4,160 cases and performed 442 specialized surgeries from Oct. 27 to Nov. 1.

The projects for people with visual disabilities are a part of ongoing voluntary medical initiatives provided by the Kingdom through its humanitarian arm, KSrelief, the SPA reported.


Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World

Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World
Updated 03 November 2024
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Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World

Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World
  • Riyadh Season’s zone is vibrant representation of country’s rich heritage

RIYADH: Riyadh Season’s zone Boulevard World recently unveiled its Iranian area, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of its culture.

The space showcases a diverse array of Iranian cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural performances, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.   

As visitors approach the area they are greeted by an ambiance that will transport them to Iran. The floating Iranian rugs and fountain adorned with a renowned Iranian statue set the stage for a memorable experience.

The area offers a real feast for the senses, with lively dance shows and music that celebrate the heritage of the historic culture.

Among the culinary delights, guests can savor lavashak, an Iranian sweet that has gained popularity for its flavor and texture.

The area also gives visitors the chance to purchase high-quality saffron, a prized spice.

Visitors can explore an exquisite selection of Iranian rugs, meticulously crafted and imported directly from the country.

Fattah Ali, the owner of an Iranian rug business featured in the area, said he was excited to be returning for a second year to Riyadh Season.

Ali told Arab News: “Iranian carpets come from various regions of the country, including Tabriz, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Each area has its unique designs and patterns. We also offer framed artworks created by skilled artisans.”

He spoke of the cultural significance of Iranian carpets, noting that they are often considered valuable investments to be passed down through the generations.

He added: “Many Saudi customers appreciate the craftsmanship, and while the younger generation may need time to understand their value, I frequently hear from patrons whose families have cherished carpets for decades.”

Visitors can also view wall panels and artwork reminiscent of features in traditional Iranian homes, as well as witness Iranian calligraphers creating works that reflect the artistic heritage of the country.

The immersive experience allows guests to appreciate the intricate details and stories behind each piece. 

Boulevard World aims to be an accessible destination for everyone, with entry tickets priced at SR30 ($8) on weekends and SR20 on weekdays.

Boulevard World is a celebration of global diversity. The area has expanded this season with the addition of five new zones representing Saudi Arabia, Africa, Turkiye, Iran, and Courchevel, France.

The overall area has grown by 30 percent and now encompasses 22 distinct zones from countries across the globe.

The areas of Egypt, Spain, and Italy now boast 21 new events, catering to varied interests, from theatrical performances to traveling shows.   

The Iranian area stands out as a vibrant representation of the country’s rich heritage, offering a unique opportunity to engage with its culture through food, art, and its community.


Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?

Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?
Updated 04 November 2024
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Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?

Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?
  • Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi says Kingdom does not have a favorite but is looking to work closely with whichever candidate wins to help resolve the Middle East conflict

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia does not have a favorite in the US presidential race, and would enjoy strong relations with either Republican Donald Trump or Democrat Kamala Harris, Saudi political commentator Ali Shihabi has said.

According to him, the Kingdom’s priority is to use its relationship with Washington to address pressing regional issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“I think the Kingdom is in a very advantageous position of having excellent ties with both parties,” Shihabi said on the Arab News current affairs program “Frankly Speaking” just days before American voters are due to go to the polls.

“Either option works out well for the Kingdom, which is quite a unique state of affairs really in situations like this.”

Combo image showing Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (L) at a campaign rally in Reno, Nevada, on Oct.31, 2024, and former Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (R) at a campaign rally in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 29, 2024. (AFP)

Shihabi said Saudi Arabia may have historically leaned more toward the Republican Party, but the situation is different this time around, as in recent years the Kingdom’s relationship with the Democrats has vastly improved.

“Things have gone very well with the Democrats — not well early on, as everybody knows,” he added, referring to President Joe Biden’s threat to make Saudi Arabia “the pariah that they are” when he was campaigning for the presidency in 2019.

However, “the Ukraine-Russian war helped drive home the strategic importance of the Kingdom,” compelling the Biden administration to reassess its stance and to view Saudi Arabia as a stabilizing influence in the region, Shihabi said.

“Now, really, the relationship is as good as it could be at a deep institutional level,” he told “Frankly Speaking” host Katie Jensen. “And that would be expected to continue with a new Democratic administration.

“A new Democratic administration would be expected to carry on and adopt a lot of, if not all, the work that the previous Biden-Harris administration carried out. “At the same time, there’s a very warm relationship with Mr. Trump and the people around him. So it really works out well for the Kingdom either way. And that’s not a usual situation.

“Usually there has been a preference for Republicans, and ties have been closer under Republican administrations. But I think in this case it works out well, whoever wins.”

Ali Shihabi is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)

Shihabi said recognition of the Kingdom’s strategic importance in the Middle East has established it as a key partner for Washington, regardless of which party is in power. 
Likewise, Saudi Arabia is looking to the US, no matter which candidate wins, to help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Kingdom has taken significant steps to advance the two-state solution, having launched a global coalition in September for this purpose. Shihabi believes US involvement is essential for any long-term success.

“America is an essential component and American pressure is an essential component,” he said. “Without the US, efforts to push Israel toward a meaningful solution may struggle to gain traction, given that Washington holds unique leverage over Israel.”

Shihabi said the attitude of the US toward Israeli actions will significantly impact the prospects for peace. “Unfortunately, the Biden administration wasn’t very strong or decisive with Israel,” he added, underscoring the need for firmer American resolve.

Just a few months ago, a historic US-Saudi security pact appeared to be imminent. At that time, bilateral relations appeared poised for a transformative agreement that could have included normalization with Israel.

However, the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that led to Israel’s invasion of Gaza is seen as having reshaped the political landscape, making such an agreement and Saudi-Israeli normalization unlikely in the near term. “It’s probably completely off the table for the time being, unless there’s a dramatic shift in the attitude of the Israeli government,” said Shihabi.

While a formal pact may be postponed, Shihabi believes the talks have already yielded closer security ties between the US and Saudi Arabia. “I think the discussions with America on that file have brought the Kingdom and America very close in sort of a de-facto security arrangement that isn’t a de-jure one yet,” he said.

Shihabi, who is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, believes the next US administration — whether led by Trump or Harris — is likely to revisit the normalization talks. Indeed, both candidates have shown interest in brokering peace deals, and Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance in the Middle East ensures that these discussions will remain relevant.

However, Shihabi said much will depend on the next US administration’s willingness to press Israel toward meaningful concessions for the Palestinians. “The Israelis may be miscalculating if they think that Mr. Trump will be completely in their hands,” he said, hinting that the former president’s potential unpredictability could lead to renewed pressure on Israel if he returns to office.

“At the same time, the Harris administration will be inheriting a tremendous amount of work that the Harris-Biden administration carried out. So I think both parties will continue to pursue this file.”

During a recent roundtable with journalists ahead of last month’s BRICS Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the US bore responsibility for the worsening Israeli-Palestinian conflict, attributing it to what he called American monopolization of the peace process.

Asked if Russia has enough leverage to deliver a miracle that the Middle East desperately needs, Shihabi said: “No. Unfortunately, I don’t think so.” He believes it is ultimately American pressure that has the greatest impact on Israel.

“Whether it’s part of the Quartet or whether it’s not part of the Quartet, it boils down to the backbone that an American president has in standing up to the Israelis,” he said, referring to the joint peace efforts of the US, UN, EU and Russia.

Shihabi cited past examples where US presidents exerted influence over Israel, such as when President Dwight D. Eisenhower forced Israel to withdraw from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula in 1956, and when George H. W. Bush offered conditional loans in the 1990s.

While these instances are rare, Shihabi said, they demonstrate that US influence can shift Israeli policy when applied decisively. He remains skeptical that the current Israeli government, with its hardline stance, will make concessions without firm American intervention.

This challenge places considerable responsibility on Washington, as “the only party that has real muscle with Israel is America,” he said. “The problem is, sometimes it’s Israel that has muscle in America and not the other way around.

“The Israelis are very strong in America. They have a very strong lobbying operation. They exert enormous influence through a variety of means.

“It’s very rare that you get an American administration that takes out the stick to put the Israelis back into line. It may happen. I wouldn’t give it a huge amount of hope, but it’s not impossible.”

One of the more surprising developments of this election cycle is the shifting support of Arab-American voters, who according to a recent Arab News-YouGov poll are drawn by a 2 percent margin to Trump over Harris.

Shihabi said the finding likely reflects the voter group’s disillusionment with the current administration’s approach to Israel. “They’re confused, obviously, because the Biden administration has been very weak-kneed with the Israelis, and hasn’t been exerting enough influence or been adequately restraining them,” he added.

Despite Trump’s history of supporting Israel, Arab-American voters appear to believe he might take a stronger stance on the Palestinian issue if reelected. Shihabi believes this sentiment has something to do with Trump’s reputation as a dealmaker and his unpredictable approach to international affairs.

Ali Shihabi, an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, speaks with Frankly Speaking host Katie Jensen. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)

“There’s that sense among some people that Trump may surprise us because he’s a strong individual; he doesn’t like to be pushed around,” Shihabi said. “He’ll be in his final term, and he loves making deals, and he’d love to solve the Middle Eastern question.

“I think the Israelis may find that they don’t get what they exactly wished for if Mr. Trump wins … He may surprise us all.”

Arab Americans have shown particular concern for the situation in Gaza, with polls indicating the issue ranks higher in importance than domestic matters such as healthcare or the economy.

According to Shihabi, the focus on Gaza revealed by the survey is a reflection of the emotional and cultural impact the conflict has had on Arab-American voters. “There’s been such wanton criminality in the way that the Israelis have behaved, and such intense human suffering, that it’s affected them like it’s affected so many other people,” he said.

The potential influence of the Arab-American vote may come into play in swing states such as Michigan, where even a small margin could sway the outcome. “It’ll be very nice if the Arab-American vote ends up making an impact, either way, because that will show that the Arab Americans are beginning to develop some political muscle,” Shihabi said.

While it remains uncertain whether their votes will tip the scales, he added, the predicted increased voter turnout among Arab Americans indicates a growing political awareness and engagement within the community.

With the leads enjoyed by Harris and Trump in different polls still razor thin, Shihabi would not be drawn on who he thought will be the likely winner. “It’s a coin toss as to which one of them will win,” he said. “We’ll just have to wait.”
 

 


Riyadh to focus on urban planning at Egypt forum

Riyadh to focus on urban planning at Egypt forum
Updated 03 November 2024
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Riyadh to focus on urban planning at Egypt forum

Riyadh to focus on urban planning at Egypt forum
  • By participating in the forum, the municipality reinforces its commitment to strengthening regional and international partnerships

RIYADH: The municipality of Riyadh will take part in the 12th World Urban Forum, organized by the UN Human Settlements Programme in Cairo, from Nov. 4-8.

It will showcase the Kingdom’s role in sustainable urban development, aligned with Vision 2030 goals, including urban planning, reducing visual pollution, and enhancing environmental, health, and urban sustainability standards.

The municipality will also highlight the Kingdom’s achievements in sustainable urban goals across various sectors, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Focus areas include comprehensive urban planning, sustainable transportation, community engagement, waste management, green spaces, and solutions to environmental challenges.

These initiatives aim to create resilient, inclusive urban communities that make use of local innovations to enhance quality of life and protect the environment.

Additionally, the municipality will emphasize its strategic focus on urban development, infrastructure innovation, and sustainability through AI, data analysis, and project management to build a sustainable urban model that meets the demands of modern cities worldwide.

By participating in the forum, the municipality reinforces its commitment to strengthening regional and international partnerships.


Saudi Arabia promotes cultural dialogue as Paris hosts Arab Week

Saudi Arabia promotes cultural dialogue as Paris hosts Arab Week
Updated 03 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia promotes cultural dialogue as Paris hosts Arab Week

Saudi Arabia promotes cultural dialogue as Paris hosts Arab Week
  • Arab Week at UNESCO features 22 spaces dedicated to Arab countries, each showcasing different aspects of Arab culture

RIYADH: Arab Week will open on Monday at the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization headquarters in Paris, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two-day event plays a significant role in advancing Arab and international cultural and civilizational efforts, contributing to the progress of education, culture, and science at both regional and global levels.

This is the first time in over half a century that Arab countries have organized an Arab Week at UNESCO. The event is spearheaded by the Kingdom’s Saudi National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science, which reinforces the Kingdom’s position regarding cultural dialogue and coexistence.

The event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world through literature and the arts. It also provides opportunities for intercultural dialogue, with all Arab countries showcasing the richness and diversity of Arab culture, promoting intercultural understanding, and contributing to cultural development.

Arab Week at UNESCO features 22 spaces dedicated to Arab countries, each showcasing different aspects of Arab culture. Seven seminars will focus on topics such as the Arabic language, Arabic calligraphy, Arabic literature, AI, education, fine arts, intangible cultural heritage, and world heritage.

Musical performances, handicrafts, Arab fashion, and Arab cuisine will also be on show.

Visitors will be able to explore a cultural exhibition, an Arabic calligraphy exhibition, a photography exhibition of heritage sites in the Arab world, and an exhibition of Arab cultural products.

The committee’s work aims to represent the Kingdom in regional and international organizations concerned with education, culture, communication, and information.

It focuses on preparing and providing support for cooperation with international and non-profit organizations, building communication bridges, and leveraging all capabilities to foster initiatives that enhance cultural dialogue between Arab countries and the rest of the world.

Arab Week has received the support and endorsement of Arab countries, and will highlight their historical diversity and cultural pluralism, as well as their values rooted in a rich cultural and civilizational heritage.