Knowledge Summit 2024 to Focus on Future Skills and AI Economy

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have announced the agenda for the upcoming Knowledge Summit 2024, set to take place on November 18-19 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This year's summit, themed 'Future Skills and the Artificial Intelligence Economy,' promises to be a pivotal event in addressing the intersection of technology, education, and sustainable development.

The summit's focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and future skills reflects the growing importance of these areas in shaping global economies and societies. As AI continues to transform industries and job markets, understanding its implications and preparing for the future workforce has become crucial for policymakers, educators, and business leaders worldwide.

One of the summit's highlights will be the release of the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2024, a comprehensive tool that measures countries' knowledge performance across various sectors. The GKI has become an essential resource for nations developing strategies to enhance their knowledge economies and address challenges in sustainable development. This year's index is expected to provide valuable insights into global trends and best practices in knowledge-based development.

The event will also feature the presentation of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to human progress and development. This prestigious award serves to highlight innovative approaches and success stories that have made significant impacts on society.

In a notable first, the summit will host the 3rd UNESCO World Open Educational Resources (OER) Congress, marking its debut in the Arab world. This congress will bring together ministers, officials, and decision-makers from around the globe to discuss digital cooperation and the future of open educational resources. The inclusion of this event underscores the summit's commitment to advancing educational access and innovation on a global scale.

The inaugural meeting of the Global Alliance for Skills Development will take place during the summit, along with the introduction of the Future Skills Academy. These initiatives are part of the broader 'Knowledge Project' and aim to empower individuals in the Arab region with the skills necessary for the future job market. The Future Skills Academy, in particular, represents a significant step towards equipping the workforce with the competencies needed in an AI-driven economy.

The summit's agenda includes a diverse range of interactive sessions and workshops covering topics such as the potential of human intelligence in developing advanced technologies, AI-driven economic transformations, cybersecurity, and AI in space exploration. These discussions will feature prominent speakers from various fields, providing attendees with insights into the latest developments and future trends in AI and related technologies.

Coursera, a leading global learning platform, will contribute to the summit by hosting panel discussions on the future of education. These sessions will explore how AI is reshaping educational systems, including adult education, technical and vocational training, and higher education innovation.

The Knowledge Summit 2024 comes at a critical time when nations worldwide are grappling with the rapid pace of technological change and its implications for society and the economy. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and innovators, the summit aims to foster dialogue and collaboration on addressing these challenges and opportunities.

As Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for knowledge and innovation, the Knowledge Summit plays a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation and knowledge exchange. The event's focus on AI and future skills aligns with Dubai's broader strategy to integrate AI across various sectors and drive digital transformation.

The outcomes of this summit are likely to have far-reaching implications for policy development, educational strategies, and economic planning in the UAE and beyond. As countries seek to navigate the complexities of the AI economy and prepare their workforces for future challenges, the insights and partnerships forged at the Knowledge Summit 2024 could prove instrumental in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future.