New Arabic Data Governance Platform to 'Elevate Local Talent'
A newly launched platform will enable Saudi companies to align data regulation with national AI policies, supporting local talent.
Riyadh: A recently introduced data governance platform is set to allow Saudi businesses to synchronize their data compliance strategies with the nation's artificial intelligence (AI) policies.
The platform, named Governata, aims to empower local expertise and promote homegrown talent in the rapidly expanding tech sector.Governata facilitates collaboration between companies and governmental entities such as the Kingdom's National Data Management Office (NDMO) and the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA).
By adhering to the guidelines set by these organizations, businesses can ensure that their data management practices align with national objectives and regulatory standards.
Furthermore, all data processed through Governata remains hosted within the country, ensuring both compliance with local laws and maintaining control over costs.Djamel Mohand, co-founder of Governata, highlighted three key benefits for Saudi businesses using the platform: firstly, the enhancement of talent development through engagement with locally built software that leverages national initiatives such as MISK (the Saudi Program for International Students) and SDAIA's own initiatives.
This approach enables thousands of data professionals to contribute to refining these technologies, fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem where local talent is at the forefront.Secondly, Mohand emphasized organizational adoption across all levels within businesses.
The platform's localization features allow for widespread implementation throughout an organization, requiring a deep understanding of cultural nuances and business operations to ensure broad acceptance and maximum effectiveness.Thirdly, addressing data sovereignty and protection, Mohand noted that while hosting data locally on-premises or in the national cloud ensures certain security measures, it is only one part of comprehensive data protection.
He stressed the importance of aligning data infrastructure with company management to prevent bottlenecks that could hinder the realization of AI's potential.Governata claims to address these challenges by preparing Saudi organizations to harness and utilize the significant investments made in AI development by the Kingdom's leadership, including substantial imports of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) for enhanced computing power and the establishment of local data centers.
Mohand expressed that as Governata elevates organizational maturity in data management, it also elevates local talent, enabling them to contribute fully to the country's technological advancement.The platform has reportedly enabled thousands of professionals from various fields—data scientists, software engineers, integration specialists, domain experts, and business managers—to collaborate in developing Saudi Arabia's technological capabilities.