Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) introduces the upgraded MBZUAI Executive Program (MEP) alongside the enrollment of its fifth cohort, comprising 44 senior leaders from various sectors across the UAE. Government entities, local authorities, NGOs/startups, and industry representatives form this diverse group.
The revamped MEP places a significant emphasis on industry relevance, focusing on the practical application and integration of AI principles across sectors. Participants, hailing from government, energy, finance, law, transportation, health, sports, and education sectors, will engage with real-world projects, policy formulation, and ethical considerations. This program aims to foster a robust regional and global AI community, facilitating UAE organizations’ digital transformation endeavors.
The MEP curriculum now spans 16 weeks with in-person sessions and encompasses four chapters and seven modules. Newly incorporated chapters include AI’s Current Paradigm Shift, AI Fundamentals, AI-Driven Industry Transformations, and AI Strategy, Policymaking, and Ethics.
Gender diversity is a highlight of the fifth MEP edition, with 43% female participation. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to embark on an international trip, gaining insights into real-world AI applications from leading global technology firms and learning best practices from AI-focused industries.
Eric Xing, President and University Professor at MBZUAI, underscores the MEP’s alignment with evolving market demands for AI expertise across public and private sectors. The updated curriculum reflects the dynamic nature of AI, addressing crucial aspects such as policy, ethics, and strategy. Xing emphasizes the holistic approach required for successful AI adoption, aligning with the UAE’s national AI strategy objectives.
In addition to MBZUAI’s internal experts, participants of the MEP have the privilege of learning from esteemed global AI luminaries such as Professor Michael Jordan from UC Berkeley, Professor Justine Cassell from Carnegie Mellon University, Professor Karl Ulrich from Wharton Business School, and Dr. Xuedong Huang from Zoom.
The program culminates in capstone projects where participants leverage AI to address national or organizational challenges, potentially catalyzing transformative societal change in sectors like healthcare, education, and sustainability.
With over 150 C-suite executives, directors, and secretaries-general having graduated from the program, the knowledge disseminated has permeated various UAE-based entities, including governmental departments, startups, SMEs, and non-commercial NGOs, fostering a diverse and talented alumni network.
Professor Xing noted the eagerness of past MEP participants to return to MBZUAI and share how they’ve applied AI insights in their respective roles, underscoring the program’s role in driving growth and positively impacting the UAE’s economy. This serves as a testament to MBZUAI’s commitment to positioning AI as a central pillar of the country’s aspirations.
