SDAIA, in collaboration with Google Cloud, is embarking on an ambitious initiative to train 1,000 women from 28 countries in the fields of data and artificial intelligence (AI). This training program, known as the Elevate Program, is the first of its kind, aiming to skillfully train over 25,000 women from different nations in advanced technical domains over the course of five years.
The first phase of the Elevate Program commenced in early May 2023 and will last for approximately four months. During this period, the trainees will undergo four levels of online training, utilizing a variety of comprehensive learning methods. These methods include integrated learning approaches, recorded lessons, self-training modules, group-based and synchronous learning, open seminars, virtual courses, as well as hands-on experiences such as advanced labs and specialized projects.
Supervising the training of the first phase are a group of Saudi youth experts from SDAIA, consisting of 7 male and 9 female trainers. These trainers deliver a comprehensive 340-hour training experience through two distinct paths: one tailored for technical experts and another catered to non-specialists aspiring to cultivate their proficiencies within these technological arenas.
The Elevate Program offers free-of-charge training sessions designed to equip participants with necessary skills and expertise in disciplines such as Cloud Engineering, Data Engineering, Machine Learning Engineering, and Cloud Operations. The first phase of the program saw 300 specialist trainees and around 700 non-specialist trainees from various countries.
Over the course of five years, the Elevate Program aims to train more than 25,000 women worldwide, empowering them to engage in a broader spectrum of roles within the domains of AI and machine learning, particularly in emerging markets. This program provides women with access to these fields and enables them to excel, catering to both specialized technical professionals and individuals passionate about data science, AI, and machine learning.
By equipping women with the necessary skills, the program aims to bridge the gender gap in scientific fields and contribute to the United Nations 2023 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Elevate Program aligns with the SDGs’ objective of promoting gender equality and creating opportunities for women in the technology sector.
This groundbreaking initiative by SDAIA and Google Cloud is a significant step towards fostering diversity and inclusivity in the fields of data and AI. By providing women from diverse backgrounds with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in these fields, the Elevate Program is poised to have a transformative impact on the global tech industry.
Through its comprehensive training approach and commitment to empowering women, the Elevate Program is set to empower a new generation of female professionals, ready to seize the increasing job opportunities in AI and machine learning. This initiative not only benefits individual participants but also contributes to creating a more diverse and balanced workforce in the technology sector.
As the Elevate Program progresses and reaches its goal of training over 25,000 women worldwide, the impact on the global tech community is expected to be profound. By providing women with the skills and expertise in advanced technical domains, this initiative will contribute to pushing the boundaries of innovation and creating a more inclusive technology landscape.
