The Human Capability Initiative (HCI) is the first global cooperative platform dedicated to aligning international efforts and enriching global dialogue around the challenges and opportunities of developing human capabilities.

⁠Under the theme #TheHumanCode, HCI will focus on skills, the future of work, education, AI, and technology during two dynamic days in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

⁠⁠Bringing together 250 speakers, including thought leaders, policymakers, corporate executives, investors, and academic experts, who will share insights, exchange best practices, and explore strategies to advance human capability worldwide.

As part of the event, the Ministry of Education will host the International Education Exhibition (EDGEx) from 3–5 May 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The announcement was made during this year’s conference in London, where KFUPM participated among leading global institutions to discuss the evolving role of universities in addressing global priorities such as scientific advancement and AI integration.

The RHE conference, organized by IE University, brings together thought leaders, university presidents, policymakers, and innovators from more than 25 countries to exchange ideas on the future of higher education. The 2025 edition featured over 215 speakers and participants exploring how universities can serve as catalysts for innovation, collaboration, and societal progress.

KFUPM’s President, Dr. Muhammad Al-Saggaf, delivered an opening keynote titled “Building a Knowledge Society: Aligning AI and Innovation with National Purpose.” His address outlined how education systems can become catalysts for national development by embracing artificial intelligence as a tool for progress rather than disruption. Later, Dr. Al-Saggaf joined the panel discussion “Science for Humanity: Universities Tackling Global Challenges,” highlighting the university’s continued efforts to respond effectively to shared global concerns.

Participation in this global conference reinforces KFUPM’s position as a thought leader among international academic institutions and sets the stage for the conference’s next edition in Saudi Arabia, which will be hosted by KFUPM on October 20–22, 2026. This continued engagement highlights the university’s active role in advancing conversations on how AI and innovation intersect with education, industry, and societal needs.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s national objectives, KFUPM continues to embed AI across its academic and research programs, with a target of graduating 10,000 AI-skilled professionals by 2030. These efforts also support the goals of the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and reflect the university’s broader mission to advance human capacity and knowledge-driven growth.

As the first university in Saudi Arabia to launch ChatGPT Edu in partnership with OpenAI, KFUPM is setting a new benchmark for the responsible and forward-looking integration of AI in higher education. Its participation at the London reaffirms its commitment to preparing future generations for an AI-enabled world.