Latest news with #MohammedbinAliAlMannai
Qatar Tribune
3 days ago
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Google Cloud Summit highlights Qatar's digital transformation successes
QNA Doha Google Cloud hosted its second annual Google Cloud Summit in Doha on Thursday under the patronage of Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, bringing together more than 1,500 industry leaders, developers, and IT professionals. The Summit marked two years of the Google Cloud Doha region empowering local innovation and is set to explore the latest advancements in AI, data analytics, and cloud technologies. The event featured significant discussions and announcements on strategic collaborations, including key developments with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) aimed at advancing Qatar's digital transformation journey. The Google Cloud Summit Doha showcased the vibrant tech ecosystem in Qatar, provided insights into transformative AI technologies, and included panel discussions on data management and cybersecurity. Assistant Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Operations Affairs at MCIT Sami Al Shammari said, 'Our collaboration with Google Cloud has served as a key enabler in Qatar's journey toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. Since the launch of the Doha cloud region two years ago, this collaboration has yielded tangible outcomes that directly support the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in enhancing digital infrastructure, delivering scalable and secure government services, and building a future-ready digital workforce.' Al Shammari added, 'By providing access to cutting-edge cloud technologies, Google Cloud is empowering entities to innovate, improve service delivery, and accelerate progress across key sectors. Their contributions in areas such as artificial intelligence and data analytics are also playing a pivotal role in developing local digital talent and equipping our workforce with the skills needed for tomorrow's challenges. 'We are eager to continue this productive partnership, further solidifying Qatar's digital future and working in tandem to realise the ambitious goals of the Digital Agenda 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.' For his part, Regional General Manager of Google Cloud in Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Iraq Ghassan Kosta, said: 'Today's Google Cloud Summit in Doha marks a truly pivotal moment in our Qatari journey, celebrating two years of our local cloud region and our strong partnerships. We are deeply honoured by the continued collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and their trust in Google Cloud. 'This success is a shared achievement, magnified by the crucial contributions of all our partners and the inspiring innovation of our customers who join us in celebrating today. Together, by providing our advanced AI, data analytics, and secure cloud infrastructure through our local Doha region, we are committed to accelerating Qatar's digital transformation, empowering its public services, and energising its dynamic digital economy.' The summit also highlighted how a diverse range of leading Qatari organisations are leveraging Google Cloud for their transformation journeys.
Qatar Tribune
5 days ago
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Global conference on AI and human rights kicks off in Doha
QNA Doha The international conference on 'Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future' commenced in Doha on Tuesday. Organised by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), the event is being held in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the National Cybersecurity Agency (NCSA), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), Huawei, and other global stakeholders in digital governance. The opening ceremony was attended by Speaker of the Shura Council HE Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim; Minister of Social Development and Family HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi; Minister of Labour HE Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Smaikh Al Marri; Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai; Minister of Education and Higher Education HE Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater; Minister of State for Interior Affairs HE Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Faisal Al Thani; and Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, among other senior officials. In her keynote address, NHRC Chairperson HE Mariam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah emphasised the relevance of artificial intelligence to human rights discourse, noting its potential to advance sectors such as healthcare, education, access to information, freedom of expression, and personal security. She warned, however, of significant ethical concerns, including bias, privacy violations, job displacement, and widening inequality. She called for a human rights-based approach to AI development that ensures transparency, oversight, accountability, and effective remedies. HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai described AI as a transformative force, no longer limited to service optimisation but shaping decisions that impact human dignity. He stressed the need to move from admiration to active governance, questioning how fairness and inclusivity can be safeguarded in a world increasingly influenced by algorithms. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, speaking via video message, outlined four critical recommendations: the creation of robust legal frameworks, bridging the digital divide, inclusive AI governance, and ensuring AI development aligns with universal human rights. President of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions Amina Bouayach called AI a defining issue of the era, influencing every aspect of modern life and urging innovation to be directed by ethical considerations. Mohammed Ahmed Al Yamahi, president of the Arab Parliament, cautioned against the misuse of AI, which could undermine privacy, exacerbate discrimination, and threaten justice and human dignity if not ethically regulated. President of the National Cybersecurity Agency Eng. Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Malki underscored the challenges posed by generative AI and reiterated Qatar's proactive stance in integrating AI into its development strategies while maintaining a secure digital ecosystem. Dr Mary Kawar, UNDP regional director for the Arab States, shared findings from a recent UNDP Human Development Report, revealing that a majority of people in lower-income countries expect AI to boost productivity and transform key sectors. She concluded by stressing that AI must be centred on human dignity and rights. In closing, HE Kawar stressed the importance of responsible AI use, underscoring that at its core, AI must prioritise human dignity and operate within a framework of fundamental rights.
Zawya
29-01-2025
- Zawya
Qatar: Communications ministry launches Digital Inclusion Index report 2024
DOHA: As part of its commitment to ensuring that all members of society can access digital services with ease and at affordable costs while fostering their effective and sustainable use, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has launched the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index for the State of Qatar. This report represents a significant step toward building an inclusive digital society that guarantees equal access to digital services for all. It highlights the evolution of digital inclusion as a cornerstone of the Digital Agenda 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030. The launch event was attended by Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, along with the Ministers and representatives from various government and private entities. The Digital Inclusion Index aims to enhance international collaboration in digital transformation by facilitating the exchange of expertise and knowledge and fostering strategic partnerships. It will be continuously updated to align with ongoing digital advancements. The report serves as a roadmap to promote digital inclusion in Qatar, focusing on ensuring that all members of society can benefit from the opportunities offered by digital technology regardless of their social or economic background. It provides comprehensive insights through seven key pillars, including digital access, ability, affordability of digital services, policies and regulations, attitudes toward digital technology, adoption and impact, and the importance of digital content. These pillars help shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by different societal segments in achieving digital inclusion. The report highlights the notable achievements that have positioned Qatar as second regionally and 16th globally in digital inclusion. Comprehensive 5G and 4G network coverage played a significant role in attaining these rankings, reflecting substantial investments in digital infrastructure. Additionally, digital capacity-building programs, such as the "Better Connections" program and the "SafeSpace" platform, have enhanced the skills of more than 1.5 million migrant workers and raised awareness of digital safety and security. These initiatives align with the sixth pillar of the Digital Agenda 2030, which envisions building an advanced digital society that leads the future. The report further notes that 77 percent of Qatar's population aged 15 years and older have completed secondary education, directly contributing to their digital skills and ability to interact with modern technologies. This progress is attributed to the country's investments in the education and ICT sectors, paving the way for building a digitally empowered society. Moreover, affordable digital services, enabled by public-private partnerships, have increased the adoption of these services, further supporting digital equity. The report also emphasizes that advanced regulatory frameworks focusing on technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are essential in fostering digital trust. It revealed that 83 percent of Qatar's population rely on basic digital activities, reflecting the nation's success in creating a trusted and attractive digital environment. However, the report outlines existing challenges in integrating advanced technologies, particularly for groups with lower digital proficiency. It underscores the importance of targeted programs tailored to the needs of these groups to bridge the digital gap. According to the report, Qatar aims to enhance its leading position in digital inclusion regionally and globally by continuously investing in digital infrastructure and education. Future goals include a 10 percent increase in digital access, a 30 percent improvement in digital competencies for citizens and residents, and a 20 percent boost in digital trust. These objectives are supported by planned initiatives, including tailored training programs to empower senior citizens in digital transformation and enhance inclusion for those with limited digital skills. Commenting on the launch, Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Development at MCIT Reem Al Mansoori said: "Digital inclusion is a cornerstone of Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030, ensuring that every member of society is empowered to thrive amid the rapid pace of technological advancement, including AI. The Digital Inclusion Index is both a benchmark and a roadmap, aligned with our vision to build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. As emerging technologies reshape industries and societies, inclusion becomes critical - not just to unlock innovation, but to ensure no one is left behind. By expanding access and enhancing digital literacy, we are strengthening Qatar's global leadership in technology and laying the foundation for a future-ready society equipped to navigate and harness the opportunities of the digital age." For her part, Director of the Digital Society and Digital Competencies Department at MCIT Duha Al Buhendi said: "The Digital Inclusion Index is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030. This report lays the foundation for designing innovative policies and programs that enhance digital equity and expand access to digital technology. We will continue to work toward ensuring that digital services reach every individual in the community while enhancing their digital skills in alignment with the aspirations of the Digital Agenda 2030." © Copyright Qatar Tribune. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
