The World Economic Forum (WEF) has announced signing agreements for three new Centers for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) launching in 2025, reinforcing its global leadership in leveraging technology for transformative change. The WEF also announced that the C4IR United Arab Emirates has been renewed.
The upcoming centers in Muscat, Pretoria and Riyadh will tackle critical global challenges with innovative solutions tailored to national and regional needs. These announcements are also complemented by the release of Forum’s C4IR Network 2023-2024 Impact Report, which highlights how the expanding global network is advancing technological solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges.
“The upcoming launches of three new C4IR Centers underscores our commitment to shaping a future where technology better serves humanity. Together, with our growing network of global partners, we will continue to harness the power of innovation to address society’s most pressing challenges and create localized solutions with global reach,” said Børge Brende, President and CEO of WEF.
C4IR in Oman to spearhead digital transformation
Hosted by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of Oman, C4IR Oman will align with the country’s “Vision 2040” and spearhead its technological and digital transformation. Upon its launch, the center, the first in the country, will focus on AI competitiveness, governance, the energy transition and quantum.
The center will also catalyze national development, drive sustainable economic growth and solidify Oman’s position as a leader in innovation in the Intelligent Age. Through this collaboration, The Oman center will also contribute to the WEF’s AI Governance Alliance, with a particular focus on how AI can advance the energy transition.
“Oman is partnering with the World Economic Forum to leverage the Fourth Industrial Revolution for a sustainable future. Guided by Vision 2040, we’re equipping youth with tools, technologies, education and training to excel in the digital era. Through innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities, we aim to build skills that drive growth and advance Oman forward,” stated Said Mohammed Ahmed Al-Saqri, Minister of Economy of Oman.
Riyadh Center for Cyber Economics
Hosted by the Global Cybersecurity Forum in Riyadh, the Center for Cyber Economics (CCE) will focus on the economic aspects of cybersecurity. It will drive research, foster cross-sector collaboration and develop evidence-based frameworks to enhance global cybersecurity resilience and economic stability. Another key area of focus will be reducing cyber disparities across geographies and industries.
“Cybersecurity is a catalyst for economic growth and social prosperity, playing an imperative role in shaping resilient economies. The Center for Cyber Economics marks a decisive step towards advancing knowledge and understanding of the economic dimension of cybersecurity to safeguard economic growth, unlock new opportunities and reveal new pathways for cross-sector collaboration towards a resilient future for global economies,” stated Majed bin Mohammed Al-Mazyed, Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority of Saudi Arabia.
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South Africa Center to advance readiness for energy transition
Meanwhile, the University of Pretoria will host the South Africa Center for Industry and Technology and the South African academic institutions will run it. This center will advance the nation’s readiness for the future of global value chains and the energy transition, with a focus on the twin challenges of inclusive cross-industry digitization and decarbonization.
To accelerate innovation and partnerships in pursuit of this mission, the center will also partner with governments and businesses, and leverage the WEFs global communities and initiatives.
“The launch of the Center for Industry and Technology, in partnership with the WEF, is a major step in driving technological progress and industrial transformation. The Center will help position South Africa for manufacturing readiness and support its sustainable energy transition towards net zero,” stated Francis Petersen, vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Pretoria, South Africa.
