Eighth International Strategic Forum Explores AI-Driven Industrial Development

The 8th International Strategic Forum conference has commenced under the theme "Drivers of Industrial Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence." Held with the support of key Egyptian ministries and strategic partners, the event gathers global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the transformative potential of AI in advancing industrial growth and economic sustainability.

 

 

• Forum theme: AI as a transformative engine for industrial development.

• Collaborative event hosted under Egyptian ministries and industry leaders.

• AI projected to add $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

• Challenges in AI adoption include infrastructure gaps and skill shortages.

 

 

The eighth edition of the International Strategic Forum, themed “Drivers of Industrial Development in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” has commenced under the patronage of Egypt’s Ministries of Communications, Planning and International Cooperation, and Environment.

 

The forum is a collaboration with the Arab League's Association of Universities, the Arab Organization for Industrialization, and the Industrial Development Authority. Esteemed guest of honor, Dr. Sadeq Afifi, underscored the significance of leveraging AI to achieve unprecedented industrial advancements.

 

Dr. Ashraf El-Shehhi, honorary president of the conference and former Minister of Higher Education, emphasized the dual nature of AI as a challenge and an unparalleled opportunity. He highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive framework to govern AI adoption, ensuring maximum benefits and ethical usage. The forum’s slogan, “With AI, Nothing is Impossible,” reflects its ambitious vision of revolutionizing industrial growth.

 

Keynote speaker Dr. Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary-General of the Arab Universities Association, detailed AI’s transformative potential in reducing costs, enhancing quality, and driving innovation. He noted successful global applications, such as Tesla’s 30% boost in autonomous vehicle production efficiency and Siemens’ 25% energy savings through smart manufacturing. However, he acknowledged challenges like digital infrastructure deficits and a global shortage of skilled talent, particularly in developing nations.

 

Former Minister of Petroleum Osama Kamal discussed how digital transformation has enabled smart factories equipped with IoT sensors, enhancing predictive maintenance and reducing production costs. He advocated for adopting advanced tools such as ERP systems to streamline industrial operations and maximize efficiency.

 

Dr. Alaa Rizk, conference president, emphasized the strategic goal of elevating Egypt’s industrial exports from 62% to 75% of total non-oil exports. He called for investments in local manufacturing, integrated industrial zones, and education hubs to foster a sustainable industrial ecosystem.

 

The forum also featured a global perspective, with insights from ambassadors and experts. Italian Embassy representative Annalisa Wagner presented a case study on vocational education collaboration, while Arab universities showcased their pioneering AI-driven projects, such as those at KAUST in Saudi Arabia and Mohamed VI University in Morocco.

 

The forum’s discussions spotlighted the transformative role of AI in shaping industrial development, not just in Egypt but globally. By addressing challenges and fostering collaboration, Egypt is poised to become a leader in AI-powered industrial innovation, propelling its economy towards sustainability and global competitiveness.