Riyadh, March 05, 2024, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has embarked on a series of strategic collaborations, both domestically and internationally, to drive advancements in technology and innovation across various sectors. These partnerships, formed as part of the LEAP tech conference initiatives, seek to bolster the semiconductor industry, foster excellence in emerging technologies and future communications, and cultivate local talent in these cutting-edge fields. In the realm of semiconductor localization, KACST has joined forces with key entities such as Alat Company, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), to fortify the semiconductor ecosystem within the Kingdom. Collaborations with the Global Semiconductor Group (GSG) focus on chip design and talent development, aiming to attract global expertise to enrich the electronic chip landscape in Saudi Arabia. To advance future communications and open networks, KACST has established a collaborative consortium with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Research, Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA), Saudi Telecom Company (STC), and Saudi Aramco. This alliance aims to drive innovation in 5G and 6G technologies, as well as Open RAN, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in shaping the future of communication technologies. In a bid to enhance quantum technologies and propel advancements in 5G and 6G networks, KACST, alongside partners such as Aramco and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, has launched the Saudi Accelerated Innovation Center. This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering technological breakthroughs in critical areas. Further collaborations include a partnership with Animoca Brands to enhance Web 3 applications, a strategic alliance with Ascend Solutions Ltd. to innovate in digital health and disability research, and a joint effort with Cisco Saudi Arabia and Elm Company to drive progress in future city technologies and emerging innovations. KACST's focus on skill development is highlighted through partnerships with industry leaders such as Cisco Saudi Arabia Limited and Nortal, centering on knowledge transfer and capacity building in the realm of IT professional certifications. These initiatives underscore KACST's commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce equipped to lead the Kingdom's technological evolution. Additionally, collaborations with entities like CiDi Auto (Hong Kong) Limited and the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited aim to boost innovation and research activities in heavy trucks, transportation technologies, and science parks, fostering a dynamic ecosystem for technology-driven growth and development. Through these strategic partnerships, KACST endeavors to drive innovation, cultivate talent, and position Saudi Arabia as a hub for technological excellence and advancement on the global stage.
