Saudi Arabia's First Accredited AI Diploma, UN Water Initiative, and Regional Conflicts Highlight Middle East Developments
First accredited data science and AI diploma launched in Saudi Arabia by Tuwaiq Academy and Meta.
Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh, in collaboration with Meta, has introduced the first accredited data science and AI diploma in Saudi Arabia, starting in December 2024 for nine months. Alongside this innovation, Tuwaiq Academy is expanding its educational offerings with technical programs, including a machine-learning bootcamp with Stanford University to boost participants' technical skills and job opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Fund for Development has signed a $41 million loan agreement with Dominica to revitalize infrastructure in Roseau, enhancing socio-economic growth and quality of life. This initiative aims to align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, boosting commercial and residential development as well as job creation in Dominica.
In cultural news, Saudi Arabia, a land deeply appreciative of its heritage, has declared 2024 as the "Year of the Camel." Celebrating the animal's historical and cultural significance, this recognition highlights the bond symbolized by these “ships of the desert” and significantly contributes to preserving Saudi Arabian heritage.
On the diplomatic front, Egypt has endorsed the appointment of Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi as the UN special envoy on water, a role addressing water scarcity and supporting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Concurrently, Egypt's Foreign Minister emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza, pushing for a resolution based on 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as the capital.
Turning to maritime safety, the Greek-flagged tanker Sounion, attacked by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, is being towed to safety with fires still raging. The EU’s naval mission Aspides is managing the operation, amidst fears of a major oil spill from the tanker carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil.
Finally, escalating tensions at the Lebanon-Israel border saw Israel urging the evacuation of the Lebanese village of Wazzani due to Hezbollah rocket fire. This marks the first evacuation warning in 11 months of violence, with significant casualties reported on both sides due to the Gaza conflict.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Fund for Development has signed a $41 million loan agreement with Dominica to revitalize infrastructure in Roseau, enhancing socio-economic growth and quality of life. This initiative aims to align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, boosting commercial and residential development as well as job creation in Dominica.
In cultural news, Saudi Arabia, a land deeply appreciative of its heritage, has declared 2024 as the "Year of the Camel." Celebrating the animal's historical and cultural significance, this recognition highlights the bond symbolized by these “ships of the desert” and significantly contributes to preserving Saudi Arabian heritage.
On the diplomatic front, Egypt has endorsed the appointment of Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi as the UN special envoy on water, a role addressing water scarcity and supporting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Concurrently, Egypt's Foreign Minister emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza, pushing for a resolution based on 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as the capital.
Turning to maritime safety, the Greek-flagged tanker Sounion, attacked by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, is being towed to safety with fires still raging. The EU’s naval mission Aspides is managing the operation, amidst fears of a major oil spill from the tanker carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil.
Finally, escalating tensions at the Lebanon-Israel border saw Israel urging the evacuation of the Lebanese village of Wazzani due to Hezbollah rocket fire. This marks the first evacuation warning in 11 months of violence, with significant casualties reported on both sides due to the Gaza conflict.
