On the sidelines of the Middle East and North Africa Telecommunications and Information Technology Forum, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Hussein Technical University, and KBW Investments signed a memorandum of understanding. The collaboration aims to build a joint project to leverage artificial intelligence tools' capabilities in addressing critical national issues. It also focuses on developing the university's capabilities in the field of artificial intelligence to become a distinguished hub for solving national problems.

The agreement involves the implementation of selected projects from the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and the 2023-2027 Implementation Plan. This will be achieved by developing the concept of a competitive research fund that allows researchers at Hussein Technical University to collaborate with relevant government entities through the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship.

Additionally, the collaboration will include the operation of at least one annual training boot camp on artificial intelligence and data science, concluding with a hackathon challenge to attract innovative solutions for selected projects. This initiative aims to build capacities and stimulate interest in artificial intelligence in Jordan.

The memorandum also outlines the establishment of a dedicated laboratory for artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) at Hussein Technical University. KBW Investments will equip the lab with the necessary equipment and software to facilitate the execution of research projects, training camps, and hackathon challenges.

Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Ahmed Hanandeh, highlighted the significance of artificial intelligence in processing vast amounts of data rapidly, contributing to informed decision-making. He emphasized the importance of spreading and developing the culture of artificial intelligence among Jordanian youth, aligning with the recently approved National Charter of Artificial Intelligence Ethics.

Ismail Al-Hantou, representing Hussein Technical University, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, considering it a crucial step to keep pace with the rapid developments in information technology and the digital world. He stressed the university's commitment to preparing the younger generation to be real and effective competitors in the modern world.

Mohammed Khrafan from KBW Investments emphasized the importance of the collaboration in building local expertise and increasing capabilities in the field of artificial intelligence. He highlighted the necessity of enhancing the infrastructure for smart cities and its contribution to addressing national challenges, providing employment opportunities in line with local and global market requirements.

This collaboration aims to qualify and equip Jordanian youth with necessary skills through research and training programs within the scientific institution, contributing to the development of a local community knowledgeable in artificial intelligence. The initiatives align with the broader goals of both the government and the private sector in Jordan to achieve economic, cultural, and technological progress.