Latest news with #Jais
Al Etihad
a day ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
‘A moment of pride': MBZUAI graduates represent new crop of global AI talent
29 May 2025 01:05 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Year after year, the Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) continues to reach major milestones, reflecting the UAE's expanding AI footprint. This year, the university celebrated its largest and most diverse graduating class, with 104 students earning future-ready degrees.'We had our first UAE national PhD graduate, who is also a member of Dubai Police. We also had our first three female PhD graduates. So, it was quite the milestone for the university,' Prof. Timothy Baldwin, Provost of MBZUAI, told Aletihad on the sidelines of Wednesday's graduation university awarded PhD degrees to 13 graduates and master's degrees to 91 students. Among them were 20 Emiratis — the highest number of UAE nationals to graduate since the university's year's graduates represent a new generation of AI talent, specialising in three core areas: Computer Vision, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing.'Next year, we will also have our first robotics graduates,' Baldwin said. 'Every year is the largest because we're growing and growing.'Although more than 80% of MBZUAI's students hail from around the world, 80% of graduates choose to remain in the UAE—a testament to the university's global appeal and national impact, Baldwin students are 'gaining high-end AI skills and generating intellectual capital'—creating innovations ranging from Arabic language models to breakthroughs in healthcare, the university's provost said.'Our Jais large language models are now the most popular for Arabic. These are open-weight and aligned with our region's values—something foreign models do not offer,' he explained.'From Alzheimer's and brain tumour detection to low-cost ultrasound tools—we are improving both hospital outcomes and access for underserved communities.'The MBZUAI students are not just learning AI, Baldwin said, they 'help build the safeguards the world urgently needs.' The Work of MBZUAI GraduatesSalem Almarri, the MBZUAI's first Emirati PhD graduate in computer vision, conducted a study on real-time anomaly detection. He developed three methods to identify criminal activity in video. 'Being the first Emirati PhD graduate (in this field) carries weight—I must keep going. We are blessed with leadership that had this vision, and now it's our turn to do our part,' Almarri said. Asif Hanif, who researched AI trust and model vulnerabilities, vowed to pursue higher studies after earning his PhD in computer vision. Mohamed Ridzwan, a PhD graduate in machine learning, focused on AI for cancer prediction. "MBZUAI is a hub of knowledge and a catalyst for AI in the region. It is a privilege to be part of this ecosystem,' he said. Maryam Arjemandi, who completed her master's in computer vision, studied fetal ultrasound imaging using diffusion models. 'There is a big data gap in medical imaging, so I partnered with Corniche Hospital to create a private dataset and trained a model to generate realistic ultrasound images,' she told Aletihad. Her aunt, Munira, beamed with pride just listening to the new graduate explain her work. 'She is the first in our family to earn a master's degree. She told me it was her dream—and thank God, I saw that dream come true."Arjemandi urged those thinking about pursuing AI studies to 'just go for it'. 'The UAE is the third strongest country in AI. If you want to do AI, come here,' she said. Hassan Almarzooqi was a proud father of graduates Abdullah and Abdelrahman. "It is truly a moment of joy. They are our sons, but also sons of the nation."Abdelrahman said it was 'a moment of pride to graduate from the top AI university', while Abdullah highlighted the university's steadfast support. 'Everything you need is provided — you just have to work hard,' Abdullah said.
New Straits Times
19-05-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
More consistent, composed Thailand still hold the edge, says sepak takraw coach
KUALA LUMPUR: The national sepak takraw squad concluded their campaign at the Asian Cup which concluded yesterday (May 18) with a decent two gold and two silver haul but more importantly continued to keep heavyweights Thailand on their toes. Malaysia's first-choice regu of Azlan Alias (killer), Syahir Rosdi (tekong) and veteran feeder Farhan Adam beat Sittipong Khamchan, Varayut Jantarasena and Yotsawat Uthaijaronsri in straight sets to win the inter-regu gold at the Titiwangsa Stadium last week which proved Malaysia's win over Thailand in the Kuala Lumpur World Cup last year was no fluke. Doubles duo Noraizat Nordin and Aidil Aiman Azwawi, who beat Thailand in the World Cup final last year, this time lost in three sets to Boonkoom Tipwong-Sirisak Anuloon. National head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun opted to tweak his regus for the team event final yesterday, opting to field Azlan and Syahir with Amirul Zazwan Amir in the first regu. They lost in three sets to Sutthikiarat Panseankaew, Jakkrit Thinbangbon and Wuttinun Kamsanor. Farhan joined forces with Noraizat and Haziq Hairul Nizam in the second regu but also lost in three sets to Tanaphon Sapyen, Sittipong Kamchan and Sirisak Anuloon. Amirul Zazwan Amir, Norfaizzul Abd Razak, Shahalril Aiman Halim and Afifuddin Mohd Razali also won the quadrant gold for Malaysia, beating Japan (Toshitaka Naito, Yuki Sato, Ryota Haruhara and Wataru Narawa) in straight sets. Thailand, however, did not compete in the quadrant which is a relatively newer event though is expected to be contested at the Thailand Sea Games in December. Jais admitted that his charges will have to raise their game if they are to end Thailand's dominance in the team event. Malaysia has not beaten Thailand - who have immense strength-in-depth - in the team event since the 1991 Manila Sea Games. "Thailand were much more composed in the team final and were solid in both attack and defence. They found an extra gear when it mattered," said Jais yesterday. "I was hoping that we could win one of the first two regus to force a decider and possibly sneak an upset win. We came close in the first two matches but unfortunately it did not go our way. "I have to admit that our team has to work even harder to improve if we are to beat them, we have to multiply our efforts. We have to be more consistent with our serves and be more solid in defence. "The Thais are very consistent and are good at absorbing pressure. At the moment, that is what separates us. "We still have the Thai King's Cup as well as the Thailand Sea Games to compete in this year so we have to keep our chin up and keep grinding." Malaysia has now beaten Thailand twice in the inter-regu (World Cup and Asian Cup) after many years of playing perennial bridesmaids to the latter. But whether Azlan, Syahir and Farhan can repeat the feat at the Sea Games this year, where Thailand will have home ground advantage, remains to be seen. Jais is looking to use the King's Cup, which will be held in Korat on July 20-27, to prepare his squad for the Sea Games. "Personally, I would prefer to send some different players to the King's Cup," said Jais. "I believe we have young players who have strong potential but may be lacking exposure in the really big international events. "This would be a good chance for us to prepare ourselves for the Sea Games."
Daily Express
15-05-2025
- General
- Daily Express
Childcare operators reminded to register with JPKA for safety compliance
Published on: Thursday, May 15, 2025 Published on: Thu, May 15, 2025 By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Jais (third, right) present the plaque to Sister Celiadiana from Stella Marris Childcare. KOTA KINABALU: Childcare operators in Sabah have been reminded that it is important to register with the Public Welfare Services Department (JPKA) to ensure safety, hygiene, and quality standards. JPKA Director Jais Asri said this during an advocacy briefing and plaque presentation ceremony involving 70 registered childcare centres here on Thursday. Advertisement He warned that unregistered childcare centres pose significant risks to child safety and urged the public to be vigilant. There are currently 231 registered centres in Sabah serving over 3,300 children, with RM151,200 in subsidies allocated to 42 of them. Jais also announced that CCTV installation is now mandatory in all centres to protect children and ensure transparency in operations. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Arabian Post
13-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Eyes Major Leap in AI with Potential Nvidia Chip Deal
The United States is deliberating a significant agreement that would permit the United Arab Emirates to acquire over one million advanced Nvidia AI chips, a move that could reshape the technological landscape in the Gulf region. The proposed arrangement, still under negotiation, would allow the UAE to import 500,000 of Nvidia's most sophisticated chips annually through 2027. Approximately 20% of these chips are earmarked for G42, an Abu Dhabi-based artificial intelligence firm, while the remainder would support U.S. companies establishing data centers within the UAE. This potential deal marks a notable shift from the stringent export controls implemented during the Biden administration, which aimed to limit the proliferation of advanced AI technologies to certain regions. The Trump administration's consideration of this agreement aligns with its broader strategy to bolster alliances and counterbalance China's growing technological influence. G42 has been at the forefront of the UAE's AI ambitions, developing a bilingual Arabic-English large language model named Jais and collaborating with global tech giants to enhance its capabilities. The firm's efforts to sever ties with Chinese entities and comply with U.S. regulations have been pivotal in facilitating this prospective deal. The U.S. Department of Commerce's introduction of the Validated End User program has further streamlined the export process for advanced technologies to trusted partners. Under this program, foreign data centers that meet rigorous security and compliance standards can receive AI chips without the need for individual export licenses. This initiative aims to safeguard national security while promoting international technological collaboration. Nvidia's advanced chips, particularly the H100 and the newer GB300 Blackwell models, are integral to the development of cutting-edge AI applications. The company's collaboration with Saudi Arabia's AI startup, Humain, to deliver 18,000 AI chips underscores the region's commitment to becoming a global AI hub. These chips are set to power a 500-megawatt data center in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the Gulf's substantial investments in AI infrastructure. See also stc Group Named Leading Workplace for Growth in Saudi Arabia The UAE's strategic partnerships extend beyond Nvidia. A notable collaboration between Microsoft and G42 has received U.S. approval, allowing the export of advanced AI chips to a Microsoft-operated facility in the UAE. This partnership is part of a broader U.S. effort to counter China's Digital Silk Road initiative by strengthening technological ties with Gulf nations. Despite these advancements, concerns persist regarding the potential for U.S. technologies to be accessed by adversarial nations. The U.S. government has imposed strict conditions on these deals, including prohibitions on the use of exported chips for model training by individuals from countries under U.S. arms embargoes, such as China. Regular audits and compliance checks are mandated to ensure adherence to these restrictions. The UAE's pursuit of AI sovereignty is evident in its initiatives to develop indigenous AI capabilities and infrastructure. Core42, a subsidiary of G42, has established a 'regulated technology environment' to deploy Nvidia's H100 Tensor chips securely within the country. This setup ensures that sensitive technologies are handled under strict guidelines, aligning with the UAE's objectives to safeguard data and maintain control over its AI systems.
The Star
11-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
S'gor halts sponsorships of undergrad studies in the Middle East
SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government and Selangor Zakat Board (LZS) will no longer sponsor students for undergraduate studies in the Middle East starting this year. Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) director Datuk Mohd Shahzihan Ahmad ( pic ) said sponsorships will now focus on local institutions such as Universiti Islam Selangor (UIS) or other universities in Malaysia. However, sponsorships for master's and doctoral studies in Egypt, Jordan and Morocco will continue. 'This decision aims to reduce the risk of students being influenced by elements that could affect their thinking and identity, especially among those pursuing Islamic studies in the Middle East,' he said, Bernama reported. Private students who are not accepted locally or choose to study abroad may still pursue undergraduate Islamic studies in Egypt, Jordan or Morocco. Jais will fully manage these cases. Mohd Shahzihan said this is to ensure students are well-prepared, have strong character, fluent in Arabic and possess the skills needed to cope with the academic environment and challenges overseas. He added that offering sponsorships for undergraduate studies at UIS helps strengthen Jais' long-established religious education system, which begins from primary school. 'UIS, under the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais), has proven its ability to produce graduates who are knowledgeable, well-mannered and job-ready,' he said. Mais and the Selangor government also welcome applications from students who have completed undergraduate Islamic studies and wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Egypt, Jordan or Morocco under LZS and state sponsorship. 'Applications for both local undergraduate sponsorships and overseas postgraduate sponsorships will open in June 2025. 'Interviews will be held to select eligible candidates,' he added.
