Apple Developer Academy Empowers Saudi Female Developers

Saudi Arabia is witnessing a remarkable advancement in artificial intelligence, thanks to the efforts of local designers and entrepreneurs. With the support of training programs, mentors, and cutting-edge technologies from leading tech companies, the landscape of AI in the region is evolving rapidly.

Recently, Apple took a significant step by launching the Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. Notably, this academy stands out as the only all-female academy globally, aiming to empower female developers in the region and prepare them for future tech opportunities.

The collaboration between Apple and Tuwaiq Academy introduces innovative programs like 'The Academy' and 'The Foundation,' focusing on teaching students how to build, train, and utilize machine-learning models on Apple devices. The curriculum emphasizes the use of native tools such as Xcode and Swift, enabling students to develop local Arabic apps with accessibility features while nurturing a passion for continuous learning and entrepreneurship.

Students enrolled in the academy will delve into AI technologies, machine learning, and the process of constructing AI models from scratch. With guidance from mentors and alumni, they will explore the application of AI in diverse fields like healthcare and education. Noteworthy projects like the 'Artector' app, designed by students to assist visually impaired art enthusiasts, exemplify the creative and practical use of AI.

Encouraging innovation, the academy motivates students to create apps like 'PiClean' for environmental awareness and 'iSpeak' for enhancing public speaking skills. By adapting the curriculum based on industry feedback, students acquire skills that align with the demands of the Saudi job market. The unveiling of cutting-edge technologies at Apple's WWDC24 equips students with powerful tools like Xcode 16 and Swift 6, enhancing their coding capabilities and enabling exploration of new frameworks.

Apple's dedication to empowering developers globally through tools for creating exceptional experiences is evident in the new core curriculum that focuses on AI and other emerging technologies. This curriculum not only benefits current students but also alumni from 18 developer academies across six countries, fostering innovation and skill development in the tech industry.

The strides made by Saudi designers and entrepreneurs in the field of artificial intelligence, supported by initiatives like the Apple Developer Academy, are paving the way for a brighter future in tech innovation. With a focus on empowering female developers and nurturing a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, the academy is shaping a new generation of tech leaders in Saudi Arabia and beyond.