Saudi University Advances Research in Defense, AI, and Nuclear Technologies
In a significant move, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) has inked 15 agreements with various government bodies and corporations to bolster research in defense, artificial intelligence, and nuclear energy.
The signing ceremony in Dhahran was graced by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the energy minister and chairman of KFUPM’s Board of Trustees. A notable agreement with King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy focuses on nuclear and renewable energy advancements, alongside hydrogen and AI technology development.
These partnerships aim to enhance skills through scholarships, educational programs, and entrepreneurial training. Additionally, KFUPM has teamed up with the Ministry of Defense on two fronts: an academic initiative for military college students and a training program for veterans and martyrs’ children.
Furthering national defense capabilities, the university has partnered with the General Authority for Defense Development to boost research infrastructure and facilitate collaboration in defense technologies.
Another significant collaboration is with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, focusing on graduate scholarships, faculty exchanges, and joint research efforts.
Beyond defense and energy, KFUPM has joined forces with Aramco to establish research centers targeting carbon materials and petroleum conversion technologies, promoting sustainable chemicals and low-carbon fuels.
An agreement with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services aims to explore drone systems, autonomous vehicles, and clean-energy transportation, paving the way for future advancements in logistics.
Other notable collaborations include a research center for environmental studies with the National Center for Environmental Compliance, academic programs with NEOM, and biomedical engineering initiatives with the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre.
Economic and educational growth is further supported through partnerships with the Ministry of Economy and Planning for postgraduate economics programs and Bank Albilad for student financial aid.