Doha: Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and Google DeepMind co-hosted the 2025 Middle East and North Africa Machine Learning (MenaML) Winter School, gathering 141 local and international university students as well as industry professionals for a six-day program designed to equip them with critical skills in artificial intelligence (AI).
According to Qatar News Agency, the Winter School featured in-depth lectures, hands-on practical sessions, and panel discussions that explored critical topics, including large language models, generative AI, deep learning, and more. The event also addressed challenges and career opportunities for young professionals within the Arab world.
The program explored the application of AI in various fields, including education, genomics, biology, and health, aligning with Qatar's national challenge for AI practitioners to revolutionize these sectors. Distinguished experts from QCRI, Google DeepMind, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, InstaDeep, and other regional organizations led these sessions, providing attendees with valuable insights and contributing to Qatar's growing knowledge hub in AI and computer science.
QCRI Executive Director Dr. Ahmed K. Elmagarmid stated: "Like our partners at Google DeepMind, QCRI focuses on stakeholders' current and future needs in the field of computing. This natural partnership enabled us to help develop talent in AI based in Qatar and throughout the region, which in turn addresses national research priorities and contributes to the country's knowledge-based economy." Participants also had opportunities for professional development, including mentorship sessions, networking events, and a poster session where they could showcase their research to peers and industry representatives.
MenaML was sponsored and supported by several world-renowned companies, including Google DeepMind, Google Cloud, Google.org, Malomatia, Dell, PhazeRO, Scale, InstaDeep, Apple, and Qeen.AI, with many hosting booths and engaging directly with the students. MoroccoAI and inzva also served as community partners.
The MenaML Winter School is designed to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and create a network of AI practitioners in the MENA region. The event fosters the exchange of knowledge, formation of new research collaborations, and development of local AI talent.