With the launch of the MENA’s region first Geo-Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI) Academy on 15 November 2022 at the University of Balamand GIS Center, the Academy has lately introduced the Geo-AI and Big Data Diploma in collaboration with ESRI Lebanon. This pioneering certification program is mainly designed to cultivate the GIS market professionals knowledge specializing in the field of geospatial artificial intelligence and big data.

Comprising four distinct modules, the program strategically equips candidates with transferrable Geo-AI skills, which will empower and help them address issues impacting societies and environment (SDGs 8,9 and 11). These skills tackle various topics in Big Data, Machine learning, GeoAnalytics, and Design Thinking. This diploma was a great opportunity for students, academics and industry professionals to start and advance their careers. Geo-AI combines innovations in spatial science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics in both academia and industry.

During the course, the candidates had access to Azure Virtual Machines powered by NVIDIA Tesla V100 GPU. This advanced setup is specifically designed for conducting comprehensive big data Geo-Analytics.

The first batch consisted of 16 participants who have successfully completed the requirements for the first three modules. These participants are set to graduate in October 2023 in a notable ceremony after completing the last module.

The Geo-AI and Big Data Diploma was tutored by world-class renowned academics and professionals in the field of Geo-AI and Big Data Analytics. They are up-to-date with the latest and greatest technologies in Geo-AI, Machine Learning and Geo-Analytics. Mr. Mansour Raad, the esteemed Artificial Intelligence Regional Chief Technologist at ESRI, was the primary educator of the GEO-AI and Big Data courses. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and practical experience in GIS, Mr. Raad actively engaged with the candidates, conveying his expertise through comprehensive lectures, hands-on workshops, and insightful discussions over an intensive 2-week period in July 2023.

Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Professor Rami Abboud congratulated the participants and commended the efforts of the GIS Center, and its Director Dr. Amal Iaaly, and admired the center’s role for its outstanding contributions to both the Balamandian community and the broader Lebanese community. Professor Abboud strongly believes that the center’s dedication to staying at the forefront of these rapidly evolving fields is evident in the quality of education, we are providing as an academic institution, leading by example helping promote the UN SDGs. The engagement with top-notch academics and industry professionals, the emphasis on practical experience, and the commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements, all contribute to the success of our new engineering programs.

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