Riyadh: Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) launched the research project of the "Global Scientific Partnerships with Top 100 Universities" program with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).
According to Saudi Press Agency, the project was launched under the patronage and support of the KSCDR and led by KAUST associate professor of computer science Robert Hoehndorf. The launch took place during the inaugural Smart Health Conference, themed "Shaping the Future of Smart Health."
The program is part of an ambitious strategy to build research alliances with elite international universities ranked among the top 100 universities according to the Shanghai Ranking. The goal is to promote research and innovation in the fields of smart health, prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment, particularly regarding disabilities and neurological and genetic disorders.
Addressing the conference, Prince Sultan bin Salman emphasized that the Kingdom, as part of its journey towards global leadership, continues to consolidate its presence in the fields of science, technology, and the future through a national vision led by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Vision 2030 has transformed into a project led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Based on this vision, future sciences emerge as a pillar of national transformation, Prince Sultan noted, adding that the Kingdom is working to support technologies such as nanotechnology, stem cells, and artificial intelligence in medicine. These technologies would contribute to reducing the cost of healthcare, increasing the effectiveness of prevention and treatment, and achieving a better quality of life for citizens and residents.
In this context, KSCDR announced two upcoming scientific events. The first, the "Disability Experts Forum," will take place in Riyadh in August, gathering experts and researchers from within and outside the Kingdom to present the latest scientific research. It will offer solutions to improve the lives of people with disabilities and enhance the integration of knowledge and application. The second event is the "Seventh International Conference on Disability and Rehabilitation," scheduled for December 2026, with international participation.