The Cognitive Leap: Harnessing AI for a Nationwide Digital Transformation
Dr. Michael Gebert
Believing in a bright future and our ability to build it together.
In the realm of digital transformation, Saudi Arabia is making strides with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). This journey is being led by companies like TONOMUS , a cognitive multinational conglomerate playing a pivotal role in the country's digital and economic transformation.
Tonomus, which began as the technology and digital lead for Saudi Arabia's ambitious mega-project, NEOM , has evolved into a fully-fledged subsidiary. The company's mission is to harness the power of cognitive technology to fuel the future of cities. Tonomus is integral to developing NEOM and its flagship initiatives, including THE LINE, Oxagon , and Trojena .
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool for driving digital transformation at a national level. As seen in the case of Saudi Arabia, strategic investments in AI can significantly accelerate economic growth and societal advancement. However, harnessing AI for nationwide digital transformation requires careful planning, robust policy frameworks, and strategic execution.
Develop a National AI Strategy
The first step is to develop a comprehensive national AI strategy that outlines the country's vision, goals, and plans for AI adoption. This strategy should consider the country's unique strengths, challenges, and needs. It should also align with the nation's broader economic, social, and technological objectives.
Invest in AI Research and Development
Significant investments in AI research and development are crucial for staying at the forefront of AI innovation. This could involve setting up AI research centers, funding academic research, and fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government.
Foster AI Education and Skills Development
To harness AI effectively, a country needs a skilled workforce. Policymakers should promote AI education at all levels, from primary schools to universities and vocational training programs. They should also encourage lifelong learning and reskilling initiatives to help the workforce adapt to AI-driven changes in the job market.
Promote AI Adoption in Key Sectors
Policymakers should identify sectors AI can significantly impact, such as healthcare, education, transportation, and energy. They should promote AI adoption in these sectors through incentives, regulations, and public-private partnerships.
Establish Ethical and Legal Frameworks for AI
AI raises several ethical and legal issues, from privacy concerns to job displacement. Policymakers should establish robust ethical and legal frameworks for AI to protect citizens' rights, ensure fair AI practices, and mitigate potential risks.
Foster an AI Innovation Ecosystem
Policymakers should foster an ecosystem that encourages AI innovation. This could involve supporting AI startups, promoting entrepreneurship, and facilitating collaboration between AI stakeholders.
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Ensure AI Inclusivity and Accessibility
AI benefits should be accessible to all citizens. Policymakers should ensure that AI technologies are inclusive and not exacerbate existing inequalities. They should also promote the use of AI in addressing societal challenges, such as climate change and healthcare access.
Engage in International AI Cooperation
AI is a global phenomenon, and international cooperation is crucial for addressing shared challenges and advancing mutual interests. Policymakers should engage in international AI forums, partnerships, and initiatives.
Yousef Khalili , Chief Commercial Officer and President of Professional Services of Tonomus asserts that AI is at the heart of Saudi Arabia's digital transformation strategy. The Kingdom has pledged billions for investments in AI, and Tonomus is one of the key players utilizing this cutting-edge technology, especially in NEOM. Khalili explains, "Everything we do in NEOM, whether it's in mobility, urban planning, sports, media, energy, or water, if it's around the interaction between the visitors of NEOM or the people living in NEOM, it is going to be AI-enabled, and it's going to be centered around cognitive experiences."
Khalili states that this cognitive future must be designed today, where AI should augment all processes and interactions. However, this is not a task for Tonomus alone. It requires an ecosystem of local and international partners, especially entrepreneurs. To this end, Tonomus has established the TONOMUS Venture Studio and pledged US$1.5 billion for the next five years to invest in entrepreneurship. The goal is to attract entrepreneurs to the Kingdom and export entrepreneurs from the Kingdom abroad based on the intellectual property (IP) that they jointly create.
Khalili advises entrepreneurs to think long-term but aim for quick success. He emphasizes the importance of showing an impact on people's lives, process optimization, productivity gains, and problem-solving. He also encourages entrepreneurs to get their products out quickly, gather customer feedback, and continuously improve.
The journey toward a cognitive future is not without challenges. It requires a shift from smart to cognitive, a transformation that demands proactive anticipation of AI's potential and impact. It also calls for a robust talent, investment, and entrepreneurship ecosystem. However, with companies like Tonomus leading the way and the Kingdom's commitment to AI, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to realizing its digital transformation goals.
As we delve deeper into the era of AI and cognitive technology, it's worth pondering a few points:
In conclusion, harnessing AI for nationwide digital transformation is complex but achievable. With a strategic approach, robust policy frameworks, and effective execution, policymakers can leverage AI to drive economic growth, societal advancement, and digital transformation at a national level.
The journey toward a cognitive future is exciting and filled with immense possibilities. As we navigate this path, we must keep these discussions at the forefront, shaping our understanding and guiding our actions in this transformative era.
Disclaimer:
This post is inspired by the great initial Interview and article with Yousef Khalili conducted by Gina Bagnulo for the Entrepreneur Middle East .
Thank you