ADSSSA collaborates with IBM to develop Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence

Wednesday 17 October 2018
Abu Dhabi - MENA Herald:

In a bid to increase the skills and develop in-depth knowledge on Artificial Intelligence (AI) of Abu Dhabi government professionals, the Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (ADSSSA) announced today (Tuesday, October 16, 2018) that is collaborating with IBM for the creating of an AI Center of Excellence in Abu Dhabi. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of their participation at GITEX Technology Week 2018 being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The MoU aims to initiate the development of the AI Center of Excellence where ADSSSA and IBM Middle East will work together to assess the feasibility, advancement and implementation of possible opportunities to create AI-based solutions across Abu Dhabi government entities. In terms of the planned collaboration, IBM will work with ADSSSA and share skills and expertise on AI and machine learning, including providing access to IBM tools and solutions for enablement, development and testing.  

Through the MoU, IBM Middle East expressed its support to ADSSSA’s efforts in leveraging AI technologies are in line with the Authority’s long-term strategy to lead excellence in government services using advanced technologies and support its ‘One Government’ service model. The collaboration has the end goal of bringing significant economic, social and environmental progress in line with the Abu Dhabi Government’s vision and economic stimulus program ‘Tomorrow 21’ focused on enhancing the lifestyles and business environment in the emirate.

H.E. Dr. Rauda Al Saadi, Director General, ADSSSA, said: “ADSSSA is moving ahead with the implementation of its key strategies towards the creation of ‘One Government’ service model for all Abu Dhabi government services. Artificial Intelligence is one of the latest technological advances that has the potential to transform the way we deliver government services in a smart and efficient manner. Our collaboration with IBM is testament to our continuing efforts to continuously raise the level of the technology intelligence of all government staff and advance our efforts in implementing our digital transformation strategy.”

H.E. Dr. Al Saadi added that the agreement is in line with ADSSSA’s leading role in technology governance for the Abu Dhabi Government and lead excellence in government services to the public by leveraging the benefits of advanced technologies. She further noted that AI forms part of the Authority’s mission to accelerate the adoption and implementation of innovative policies, strategies and technologies which support Abu Dhabi’s goal of achieving economic growth and improve citizens’ quality of life through efficient and intelligent government services delivery.

"AI has the capacity to make sense of massive volumes of data," said Amr Refaat, General Manager, IBM Middle East and Pakistan. "By expanding digital intelligence exponentially, AI technologies can deepen and augment human capabilities and translate data into actionable insights. This will also help organizations drive innovation, improve operational efficiency and make better capital decisions."

The agreement entails a number of domains, one of which focuses on exploring key opportunities built on AI-based solutions, in line with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence which aims to boost government performance at all levels. Another aspect of the agreement will focus on implementing the AI Enablement Program for Abu Dhabi government professionals, which will involve a variety of engagement with technical and non-technical staff regarding AI.

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