HTU, Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, and KBW Investments Sign MoU to Advance AI Research and National Innovation

In a significant step toward advancing artificial intelligence (AI) innovation in Jordan, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Al Hussein Technical University (HTU), and KBW Investments LLC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint initiative aimed at leveraging AI technologies to address national challenges and strengthen HTU’s capabilities as a future hub for applied AI research and problem-solving.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the MENA ICT Forum, organized by the Information and Communications Technology Association of Jordan (int@j) on November 16–17, 2022.

According to the MoU, the three parties will collaborate on a series of projects derived from Jordan’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and its 2023–2027 Implementation Plan, including the creation of a competitive research fund that enables HTU researchers to work closely with relevant government entities through the Ministry. The collaboration also includes organizing annual AI and Data Science bootcamps, concluding with hackathon challenges designed to generate innovative solutions and build national capacity in the field of artificial intelligence.

The agreement was signed by H.E. Ahmad Hanandeh, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship; Prof. Ismael Al-Hinti, President of Al Hussein Technical University; and Mr. Mohammad Khirfan, representing KBW Investments.

As part of this partnership, an advanced AI, Big Data, and Internet of Things (IoT) Laboratory will be established at HTU, equipped by KBW Investments with the necessary hardware and software to support research projects, training camps, and hackathons.

During the signing ceremony, Minister Hanandeh emphasized that artificial intelligence has become one of the most transformative technologies of the modern era, enabling rapid data processing, informed decision-making, and improved accuracy across sectors. He highlighted the importance of expanding AI education among Jordanian youth, aligning with the recently adopted National Charter for AI Ethics, which ensures the responsible use of AI while fostering creativity and innovation.

Prof. Al-Hinti expressed his pride in this collaboration, calling it “a key step in keeping pace with the rapid evolution of digital technologies shaping global and local job markets.” He reaffirmed HTU’s commitment to preparing the next generation of skilled professionals who can compete globally and contribute effectively to Jordan’s development in line with the vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II.

Mr. Khirfan also underscored the importance of building local expertise in AI and smart infrastructure, stressing that such initiatives not only enhance national capabilities but also create future employment opportunities aligned with both local and international labor market demands.

It is worth noting that Al Hussein Technical University, an initiative of the Crown Prince Foundation, is a national, non-profit private university offering a modern applied education model that strengthens technical and professional skills in engineering and technology. The university strives to bridge the gap between theory and practice, align higher education outcomes with market needs, and foster innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit among its students.