University Graduates Showcase AI-Driven Health Solutions for Syrian Children
Innovative project presented at the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum aims to address healthcare and education gaps in war-affected regions.
A team of university graduates unveiled a prototype of an AI-powered education and healthcare system at the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday.
The project, named BenevolCare, was part of a hackathon titled 'Artificial Intelligence in Humanitarian Relief,' which was organized by the Saudi aid agency KSrelief and Alfaisal University.
BenevolCare is specifically designed to provide automated health assessments and mental health support for children affected by conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic.
The initiative aims to leverage artificial intelligence to bridge significant gaps in healthcare and educational services in war-torn areas.
Sham Osama, an engineering graduate from Prince Muqren University and one of the project’s designers, stated that the inspiration for BenevolCare arose from witnessing the severe lack of healthcare and educational resources for Syrian children following years of warfare.
"Artificial intelligence will allow us to fill the gap in the healthcare and education system in Syria," Osama remarked, adding that the aim was to create an AI-enabled device applicable in schools to enhance students’ learning experiences in a healthy environment.
Mayas Alnan, a pharmacy graduate from Alfaisal University who contributed to the project’s medical components, explained that the model would incorporate AI-driven healthcare tools into everyday school operations, facilitating ongoing monitoring of students’ health and well-being.
"Data-driven insights allow for early intervention, personalized support, and better long-term health outcomes," she emphasized.
Furthermore, the project includes AI-enhanced vocational training programs aimed at equipping students with skills for sustainable employment.
During the two-day forum, KSrelief is expected to formalize multiple agreements with the United Nations and international organizations, as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader humanitarian initiatives.
According to Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, the supervisor-general of KSrelief and an advisor to the Royal Court, the agency has initiated 2,670 projects since 2015, with an investment exceeding $6.5 billion across 95 countries, in collaboration with 175 local, regional, and international partners.
The majority of KSrelief’s efforts have targeted Yemen, receiving $4.3 billion; followed by Syria with $391 million; Palestine, which received $370 million; and Somalia at $227 million.