Amman: Arab innovation leaders and tech experts gathered in Amman for the "Innovation in the Time of Challenges Forum," an event organized by Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Global Digital (TAG.Global), the Arab Network for Creativity and Innovation (ANCI), the Arab Satellite and Digital Broadcasting Authority, and the Arab Smart Cities Forum. The forum aimed to bring together decision-makers in innovation technology to discuss advancements and challenges in the field.
According to Jordan News Agency, Senate President Faisal Fayez, in his opening remarks, emphasized the critical role of innovation in today's rapidly changing technological landscape. He described the forum as a vital platform for Arab youth to engage in innovation across various disciplines, contributing to science and sustainable development. Fayez highlighted Jordan's position as a leading model in Arab innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by a favorable investment climate and strong digital infrastructure. He credited the backing of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II for the advancements in technology, digital economy, and innovation sectors.
Fayez also pointed out that Jordan has established dynamic ecosystems that have positioned it as a regional hub for technology and startups. He expressed hopes to further strengthen this role amidst the global challenges and crises with economic and humanitarian impacts. The forum, he said, reflects a robust collective will to tackle these challenges and promote regional and international cooperation in development and innovation.
Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, chairman and founder of TAG.Global, announced the launch of the Arab Authority to Support Investment in Innovation and unveiled plans for a new educational initiative aimed at preparing graduates for the labor market. ANCI Secretary-General Fahd Al-Amleh emphasized the importance of innovation for Arab youth, warning that those who fail to produce knowledge will remain dependent on others.
Former Lebanese Minister Yacoub Sarraf expressed concerns about the diversion of Western innovation towards militarization, urging for an Arab-centered digital ecosystem based on Arabic-language software. Meanwhile, former Minister Maen Qatamin cautioned about the challenges posed by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, which could disrupt job markets and traditional industries.
The forum's agenda included discussions on the role of governments and international organizations in supporting Arab innovation ecosystems, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and the application of artificial intelligence in healthcare and education. Topics such as Arab water and food security and human development in the age of smart transformation were also addressed.