Tuwaiq Academy has launched the ALBUS initiative in partnership with Google for Education, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. The project represents the first deployment of Google’s integrated educational technology platform within technical schools for gifted students across the Middle East. Announced at Tuwaiq Academy’s main headquarters in Riyadh, the program incorporates modern computing tools and advanced artificial intelligence directly into the classroom curriculum.
Scope and Reach of the ALBUS Initiative
The program covers 10 technical schools for gifted students across five Saudi regions, specifically Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Madinah, and Qassim. More than 450 students and 100 teachers will participate directly in the program during its initial phase. In addition, 15 certified trainers will support educational staff by transferring technical expertise and building digital capabilities across all participating schools.
Hardware and software partners include Lenovo and Intel, who are collaborating to supply necessary technical infrastructure for the participating classrooms. Students and educators will use Chromebook computers alongside specialized education tools to facilitate daily classroom instruction.
Artificial Intelligence Integration and Classroom Tools
Classroom activities will incorporate Gemini artificial intelligence technologies to support personalized learning and modernize instructional workflows. The platform provides teachers with automated assistance while giving gifted students direct access to advanced computing tools. Consequently, the program aims to equip participants with practical technical skills needed for emerging digital sectors.
During the launch ceremony, Tuwaiq Academy recognized certified trainers and teachers who completed professional qualification requirements. Several educators earned accredited credentials, including the Google Certified Educator certification and the Gemini Teacher credential, reflecting their competency in applying digital tools to instructional environments.
Executive Perspectives on Educational Technology
“This launch reflects the academy’s commitment to developing a learning environment that enables teachers and students to benefit from modern technologies and strengthens their capabilities in technical fields.”
Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi, CEO of Tuwaiq Academy
Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi stated that the program contributes to preparing qualified talent capable of leading future technology sectors. Meanwhile, Tarek Bolbol, Head of Artificial Intelligence in Education for the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye at Google for Education, highlighted the significance of the partnership.
“The partnership represents a pioneering model for integrating AI into education. Cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy reflects the Kingdom’s progress in developing its digital educational infrastructure.”
Tarek Bolbol, Head of AI in Education for MENA and Türkiye at Google for Education
Building National Digital Capabilities
The ALBUS initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to build technical capabilities among Saudi youth and prepare national talent for specialized career tracks. By adopting modern educational software and computers in schools, Tuwaiq Academy aims to expand access to emerging technologies across key educational centers in the Kingdom.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
