The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) has partnered with cognitive technology firm Saal.ai to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and big data into its academic programs, aiming to prepare Emirati students for the demands of a digital future.
Signed at HCT’s campus, the agreement brings together the UAE’s largest higher education institution and Saal.ai, part of Abu Dhabi Capital Group, in a bid to align with the UAE’s innovation-driven goals and the Year of Community initiative.
Central to the collaboration is the introduction of DigiXT, Saal.ai’s enterprise-grade AI and data platform, into HCT’s curricula. This will provide students with hands-on experience in real-world AI applications, boosting both their technical skills and employability.
Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President and CEO of HCT, described the move as a “transformative milestone,” emphasizing the importance of building a generation of agile, future-ready problem solvers equipped to lead in a digital economy.
Saal.ai CEO Vikraman Poduval highlighted the initiative as a step toward national progress, stressing the company’s commitment to practical education and fostering innovation through public-private collaboration.
The partnership aligns with the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and HCT’s 2023–2028 vision focused on applied learning and industry engagement. It also complements the upcoming nationwide rollout of AI education across public schools, from kindergarten to Grade 12, set to begin next academic year.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
