Alfaisal University and Saudia Cargo sign MoU to advance artificial intelligence research and talent development for the logistics sector

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Alfaisal University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Airlines Cargo Company (Saudia Cargo). The agreement sets out how the two organizations will work together on academic and scientific research related to artificial intelligence and logistics. It also covers developing courses, training students, and helping professionals build their skills. The MoU was signed by Dr. Khaled Al-Kattan, Vice President for Finance and Administration and Dean of the College of Medicine at Alfaisal University, and Mr. Hashim H. Alsharif, Vice President of Strategy at Saudia Cargo.

Under the agreement, the two organizations will explore joint research projects involving Alfaisal students, teachers, and staff. These projects will focus on logistics operations and new technologies, including artificial intelligence. They will also work on developing courses that give students the skills businesses need and offer short-term internships for male and female students at Saudia Cargo's headquarters. These internships may take place through the Tamheer on-the-job training program, if participants meet its requirements, or through cooperative training. Other plans include specialized workshops and training programs on how AI can be used in logistics, as well as conferences, seminars, scientific talks, and new projects to improve logistics services. Saudia Cargo will also explore ways for its employees to develop their skills through Alfaisal University's academic, training, and professional development programs.

The agreement builds on Alfaisal University's growing work in artificial intelligence. The University's College of Engineering and Advanced Computing offers a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, which includes a summer internship with an industry partner. The University also offers a Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence, covering machine learning, data science, and AI systems. Its Artificial Intelligence Center leads research and teaching in AI and develops partnerships with businesses. The University's AI Academy has also introduced students preparing for college to the field through practical summer programs.

“Artificial intelligence is changing how goods move around the world, and logistics is an important part of the Kingdom's goals under Saudi Vision 2030. Our partnership with Saudia Cargo brings Alfaisal's work in AI, including our undergraduate and graduate programs and research, together with one of the region's leading air cargo operators. This will allow our students and faculty to work on real challenges in a sector that is important to the country,” said Dr. Khaled Al-Kattan.

The MoU also supports the University's plan to create more opportunities for students, faculty, and staff by working with private businesses. Founded by the King Faisal Foundation in 2002, Alfaisal combines teaching, research, and cooperation with industry in a learning environment centered on students. Its internship and cooperative training partnerships give students practical experience and help connect their education with the needs of the job market.

Al-Kattan added: “Training our students alongside Saudia Cargo's professionals and opening our programs to its employees will allow both sides to share knowledge. Together, we aim to develop national talent and support new ideas and change in the logistics sector.”

Hashim Alsharif, Vice President of Strategy at Saudia Cargo, said: “At Saudi Cargo, we fully recognize that bringing academic knowledge together with smart solutions and artificial intelligence technologies plays a key role in advancing the logistics sector's goals. We are proud to partner with Alfaisal University to work together on research projects and course development that match market needs. This agreement also creates more opportunities for practical training and professional development for both students and staff. In the end, it will help improve air cargo efficiency and develop national talent to play a key role in the future of logistics in the Kingdom.”

A steering committee will track the progress of activities under the MoU. Its members include HH Princess Aljohara bint Faisal bin Musaad Al Saud, Director of Alumni & Placement Relations at Alfaisal University, and Eng. Majdi Alrehaili, Executive Director of External Affairs at Saudia Cargo.

About Alfaisal University

Alfaisal University is a private, nonprofit research university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was founded in 2002 by the King Faisal Foundation. The University focuses on high academic standards, research, and putting knowledge into practice. Its learning environment puts students first and prepares graduates to become leaders and make meaningful contributions to society. Its diverse academic community brings together education, research, cooperation with industry, and international partnerships. The University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, engineering and advanced computing, medicine, science and general studies, pharmacy, and law and international relations.

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About Saudia Cargo:

Saudia Cargo is Saudi Arabia's leading national air cargo carrier and is based in Jeddah. Using the Kingdom's strategic location between East and West, the company operates an efficient air transport network connecting the two regions.

The company has more than seven decades of experience. Its history is shaped by innovation, resilience, passion, and a commitment to putting people first. It has maintained its position as one of the world's most active and dynamic cargo carriers.

As a member of the SkyTeam Cargo alliance, Saudia Cargo benefits from a wide network that reaches many destinations around the world. It operates a modern fleet of Boeing aircraft and offers fast shipping services, especially for sensitive cargo such as e-commerce goods, pharmaceuticals, and dangerous goods.

Over the past decades, Saudia Cargo has strengthened its position around the world and built a reputation for reliability through its important role in transportation and supply chain support. This has helped the company continue to grow and strengthen its global leadership.

For more information, please visit: saudiacargo.com

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