https://arab.news/mqnaj
- Event co-organized by Saudi aid agency KSrelief
- Model could help fill gaps in Syria’s healthcare, education systems, inventor says
RIYADH: A team of university graduates presented a mock-up of an AI-powered education and healthcare system at the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday.
The project, named BenevolCare, was presented at a hackathon titled “Artificial Intelligence in Humanitarian Relief,” organized by Saudi aid agency KSrelief and Alfaisal University.
BenevolCare is designed to provide automated health assessments and mental health support for children affected by war in the Syrian Arab Republic.
Sham Osama, an engineering graduate of Prince Muqren University and one of the project’s designers, told Arab News that the inspiration for BenvolCare came after she witnessed the lack of healthcare and education services for Syrian children after years of fighting.
“Artificial intelligence will allow us to fill the gap in the healthcare and education system in Syria,” she said. “We wanted to create a device that uses AI that can be used in any school … (and help students) complete their learning experience in a healthy environment.”
Mayas Alnan, a pharmacy graduate of Alfaisal University who worked on the medical elements of the project, said the model would integrate Al-driven healthcare tools into daily school activities, ensuring continuous monitoring of students’ well-being.
“Data-driven insights allow for early intervention, personalized support and better long-term health outcomes,” she said.
“The schools also provide Al-enhanced vocational training, preparing students for sustainable careers.”
Also during the two-day event, KSrelief is expected to sign several agreements with UN and international organizations as part of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian efforts, according to Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, its supervisor-general and adviser to the Royal Court.
Since 2015, the aid agency has implemented 2,670 projects worth more than $6.5 billion in 95 countries, in cooperation with 175 local, regional and international partners.
The bulk of the support has gone to Yemen ($4.3 billion), Syria ($391 million), Palestine ($370 million) and Somalia ($227 million).
KSrelief’s programs cover food security, health, sanitation, shelter, nutrition, education, telecommunications and logistics.a