International Training Workshop on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence: Empowering Professionals in the Global South
The International Training Workshop on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence took place from the 25th to the 28th August in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The programme was jointly organized by ISTIC under the auspices of UNESCO, the International Knowledge Centre for Engineering Science and Technology (IKCEST) under the auspices of UNESCO, MIMOS Berhad (Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems), and Xi’an Jiaotong University.
The event brought together 67 participants from across the Global South, including policymakers, researchers, engineers, and academics, creating a platform for learning, collaboration, and exchange.
A Dynamic Learning Experience
Over the course of the workshop, participants engaged in expert lectures, interactive discussions, technical demonstrations, and study visits. The program featured speakers from Xi’an Jiaotong University, MIMOS, Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), who shared insights on the latest advancements in Big Data and AI.
Sessions covered a wide range of topics, from the fundamentals of AI and Big Data platforms to advanced applications such as computer vision, deep learning, AIoT, and quantum-enhanced large language models. Technical visits to MIMOS R&D labs allowed participants to witness cutting-edge technologies in action, reinforcing the practical value of the training.
Knowledge Gained and Impact
Participants reported gaining both technical and strategic skills to better understand how Big Data and AI intersect with broader economic and social trends.
They learned how these technologies could be applied to:
- Improve decision-making and policy design in science, technology, and innovation (STI).
- Enhance productivity in industries through predictive analytics and smart systems.
- Support the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by generating high-quality, real-time data.
The workshop also strengthened networking and collaboration among participants, who exchanged experiences and best practices from their respective countries
A Step Towards Inclusive Innovation
This workshop marked another significant step in ISTIC and IKCEST’s mission to empower professionals, foster collaboration, and ensure that the benefits of Big Data and AI contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth across the Global South.
Workshop Videos
