Mikhail Knyazhev, Customer Advisory Director, Head of SAS D[n]A Factory Middle East, tells Tahawultech how the SAS D[n]A Factory is contributing to the region’s goal of becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence.
How will the launch of the SAS D[n]A Factory contribute to the region’s goal of becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence, particularly in terms of fostering innovation to address region and industry-specific challenges?
Through its AI Strategy, the UAE has a clear vision through to become the global leader in AI by 2031. SAS is strongly committed to supporting the objectives of the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 by developing local talent and creating new AI solutions within the UAE. For example, the SAS D[n]A Factory’s local team has already delivered specific use cases aimed at enhancing the UAE’s competitive edge in priority sectors through AI deployment.
In the healthcare sector, SAS has worked with EHS (Emirates Health Services) on a number of use cases; a notable one is the use of artificial intelligence to cut carbon emissions and optimize clinical appointments for a more sustainable and accessible healthcare future. The state-of-the-art EHS Intelligence platform is able to analyze large data related to patient visits, calculating the related carbon footprint of patient travel to EHS facilities through an intelligent algorithm. The pioneering use of analytics not only reduces transport associated emissions, but also increases patient intake without taking up subsequent outpatient clinic space. The successful deployment of AI to reduce carbon footprint is visibly leveraging EHS’s objective in becoming one of the greenest health care providers in the region.
Speaking of the top Middle Eastern data scientists, will SAS launch its very own academy in the UAE?
When discussing the development of Data Science experts, a crucial element of success is achieving a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Drawing on over 40 years of experience in fostering Data Science communities globally, SAS has established its own methodology for training AI specialists.
As part of the SAS D[n]A Factory initiative, we are committed to investing in the training of newly graduated students from the Middle East. The program has already identified its first cohort from over 500 applications received across various Middle Eastern countries. These selected graduates undergo a six-month internship where they refine their data analytics skills, using courses and resources developed by top SAS trainers. Moreover, they are able to apply their knowledge to real-world industry AI use cases during this internship period.
In addition to the SAS D[n]A Factory program, students also have access to SAS Skill Builder. This platform enables them to acquire new analytical skills through free cloud-based software, online courses, and preparation materials for certification exams. This comprehensive support helps students to focus on their career goals in the technology sector. Furthermore, they can participate in SAS industry workshops conducted in different regions worldwide, enhancing their practical knowledge and networking opportunities in the field.
How will SAS’s unconventional approach with the SAS D[n]A Factory leverage trustworthy data, analytics, and AI to assist businesses in the Middle East in improving their operations, revenues, and profitability?
One of our objectives with the SAS D[n]A Factory is to realize a high quantity and quality of emerging technology use cases across various industries in the Middle East. We have already curated over 30 specific, regionally qualified use cases for our Factory Backlog and our team is actively developing solutions to bring these to market. These use cases are tailored to address precise industry needs within the region.
For example, SAS has implemented an AI-based Flood Management solution, recognizing flooding as a significant natural disaster that can cause extensive damage and disrupt communities. SAS has subsequently partnered with governmental and non-governmental organizations globally to enhance flood management systems. One notable collaboration was with the Jakarta government, where SAS integrated an award-winning flood control system into the “JAKI” super app. This system utilizes real-time data and advanced predictive analytics derived from sensors and weather forecasts to predict and mitigate flooding events effectively. The success of this initiative has clearly demonstrated practical, impactful solutions in urban management.
In the Middle East specifically, the SAS D[n]A Factory is adapting and applying similar experiences to meet particular needs and regional data landscapes. By leveraging trustworthy data, analytics, and AI, SAS equips businesses in the UAE to enhance operational efficiencies, increase revenues, and improve overall profitability by better preparing them for unforeseen scenarios and challenges.
