In a groundbreaking move, G42 and Microsoft have joined forces to launch the Responsible AI Foundation, the first of its kind in the Middle East. This initiative, supported by the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), aims to set new standards for responsible AI practices across the Middle East and the Global South.
A New Era for AI in the Middle East
The Responsible AI Foundation is not just a milestone for the region but a beacon for ethical AI development worldwide. With Inception, a subsidiary of G42, leading the program, the foundation is committed to ensuring that AI technologies are developed and deployed ethically and inclusively.
Microsoft's collaboration with G42 also includes the expansion of its AI for Good Lab to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the UAE's status as a global leader in responsible AI innovation.
Focus Areas of the Foundation
The foundation will concentrate on two main areas:
Responsible AI Research: This involves pioneering research into the technical and ethical aspects of AI. The foundation will work on AI safety, bias mitigation, and explainability tools, collaborating with global and regional institutions to establish new standards for AI fairness and transparency.
Responsible AI Implementation and Governance: The foundation will create frameworks to ensure AI systems are developed ethically, considering cultural diversity. This includes risk assessment models, external ethics boards, and adaptable governance guidelines to ensure responsible and inclusive AI adoption.
The AI for Good Lab: A Hub for Societal Impact
Located in Abu Dhabi, the AI for Good Lab will collaborate with NGOs and governmental bodies to leverage AI in tackling societal challenges in the Middle East and Global South. The first researchers are set to begin their work in March, marking the start of a new chapter in AI-driven social impact.
Key Takeaways
- Pioneering Initiative: The Responsible AI Foundation is the first of its kind in the Middle East, setting a precedent for ethical AI development.
- Collaborative Effort: Supported by MBZUAI and led by G42's Inception, the foundation emphasizes collaboration with global institutions.
- Focus on Ethics and Inclusivity: The foundation's frameworks aim to ensure AI technologies are developed with ethical considerations and cultural inclusivity.
- Global Hub in Abu Dhabi: The AI for Good Lab will serve as a regional center for AI research and societal impact.
This initiative by G42 and Microsoft is a significant step towards a future where AI technologies are not only advanced but also aligned with ethical standards and societal needs.