King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), in partnership with US company Intel Corporation, opened the region's first Center of Excellence for Wireless Applications (CEWA) in Riyadh. The center is intended to drive research and development into wireless applications in the Kingdom and the wider region, in line with Intel's Digital Transformation Initiative, as well as supporting businesses and other organizations in wireless deployments. CEWA's capabilities include consulting and management services for wireless applications, as well as research and development for the telecommunications industry. The technology and training that CEWA is able to provide can be utilized by Saudi Arabia's universities, research institutions, government agencies, and private-sector organizations, to support the diversification of the country's economy, as well as the drive towards a knowledge-based society. Prince Dr. Turki Saud Mohammad Al Saud, chairman of CEWA and vice president for Research Institutes of KACST, said: “Research is a fundamental pillar to support Saudi Arabia's diversifying economy and it is important for our universities and research institutions to work with global leaders like Intel in the Middle East. By partnering with Intel on CEWA, KACST has positioned itself at the forefront of the development of wireless technology, networks and applications for the region.”
