UAE, Malaysia, Rwanda Expand AI Fellowship to Drive Responsible Innovation in the Global South

The UAE, Malaysia, and Rwanda have signed a strategic partnership to accelerate responsible AI adoption across the Global South, expanding a knowledge-sharing initiative that links AI experts, policymakers, and innovators.

The agreement, signed under the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) global network, builds on an earlier partnership between the UAE and Rwanda and now includes Malaysia as a key partner. The three countries aim to promote ethical AI governance, cross-border talent exchange, and inclusive technological development.

The expanded C4IR AI Fellowship Programme will serve as a platform for coordinated efforts in AI policy, innovation, and sustainable development. Originally launched at the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, the program will now deepen cooperation through joint projects and skills development across Global South nations.

“This visionary initiative bridges global AI expertise and accelerates digital transformation for a more inclusive and sustainable future,” said Malaysia’s Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo. “By sharing knowledge and co-creating solutions, we aim to harness the immense potential of AI for the benefit of not only our nations but the wider global community.”

The UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, Omar Al Olama, witnessed the signing alongside leaders from the C4IR network.

The fellowship expansion is backed by the UAE Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (UAE C4IR), launched in 2019 in partnership with the World Economic Forum and overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation.

“This partnership will help the Global South unlock greater value from AI and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies,” said Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation.

Rwanda’s C4IR, a key regional hub for AI governance and innovation, called the initiative a boost to its own flagship efforts, including the AI Innovation Lab and the Global AI Summit on Africa.

“We are committed to empowering Rwanda, our partner countries, and the global AI ecosystem to fully leverage AI for sustainable and inclusive development,” said Crystal Rugege, Managing Director of the Rwanda Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The Global C4IR Network, coordinated by the World Economic Forum, brings together public and private stakeholders to maximize the societal benefits of emerging technologies while managing risks. With the expanded AI fellowship, the network now strengthens South-South cooperation in shaping responsible AI systems.

Aytug Goksu, Head of Network and Government Affairs at the WEF, added: “By uniting the shared vision of these regional centers, we are building a global community of AI leaders committed to inclusive progress.”