An Innovation Hub powered by Google was launched at UAE University as part of efforts to improve the rate of progression in science and technology in the country.
The first of its kind in the region, the hub can host up to 120 students per day and was inaugurated by Sheikh Saif in Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, as part of celebrations for UAE Innovation Month.
Students can enrol in specialised courses to study machine learning, app development, 3-D printing and laser-cutting, as well as other skills that will prepare them for industry.
Dr Ali Al Nuaimi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Education, chancellor of UAEU and a member of the Executive Council said the hub will help meeting the needs of the labour market by developing Emirati students’ skills while encouraging young people to contribute to building and supporting a knowledge-based economy.
“Artificial intelligence is the engine driving forward the fourth industrial revolution; it encourages companies around the world to design innovative products by using artificial intelligence,” said Dr Al Nuaimi.
Head of Public Policy and Government Relations at Google in Mena, Selim Eddé, said students can undergo machine learning training which was used by Google engineers to develop programmes such as Google Translate.
“The usage of internet and mobile app is expanding at a very fast pace in the Middle East and North Africa region, and it is necessary to equip the youth with the skills needed to be active contributors to this technological growth,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing the impact of this hub on the youth of Al Ain and Abu Dhabi.”
The educational facility was launched by Al Bayt Mitwahid Association, in co-operation with United Arab Emirates University and Adek. It is open to applications for courses in the App Factory, MakerSpace and Machine Learning.