JEDDAH: Consul General of India Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri emphasized the importance of integrating technology with human values to ensure a balanced and meaningful future. He made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at the valedictory session of the one-day Talent Lab Season 3 up skilling workshop, held at the International Indian School–Jeddah (IISJ) Boys’ Section auditorium.
The event was organized by the Goodwill Global Initiative (GGI) in association with the Consulate General of India and in collaboration with Effat University. Themed “Humans vs. Machines: The Pathway to Success and Happiness in the Tech-Driven Era,” the workshop brought together more than 200 Indian students from international schools across Saudi Arabia’s western region.
In his address, the Consul General highlighted the need for a harmonious relationship between humans and machines rather than one of competition.
“Even in this era of extraordinary change driven by AI, automation, and machine learning, humans will never be replaced by technology,” he said. “A successful and happier future belongs to those who can blend technology with humanness. Only humans can care and empathize — machines cannot.”
He also stressed the four guiding principles for success: character, creativity, curiosity, and collaboration.
The valedictory session was chaired by GGI President Hassan Cheruppa, with Dr. Ashraf Amir, CEO of International Medical Center and President of the Saudi India Healthcare Forum, and Dr. Reem Al Madani, Dean of Effat University, serving as guests of honor.
Felicitation speeches were delivered by Dr. Mohammed Imran, Principal of IISJ; Mohammed Alungal, President of Abeer Medical Group; Ashraf Moideen, Director of Jeddah National Hospital; and Jaza Fathima, one of the student participants. GGI General Secretary Ishaque Poondoli welcomed the audience, while Treasurer Jaleel Kannamangalam proposed the vote of thanks.
Motivational talks were presented by Dr. Marwan Dashash, former Toastmasters governor and director, on “Chase Your Ambition; Pursue Your Passion,” and Asker Ali Khan, Toastmasters speech champion, on “What Makes Me Successful and Happier in Life.”
A special segment titled “Discourse with a Doyen” featured thought-provoking insights from Dr. Ashraf Amir and Dr. Jemshith Ahmed, Vice President of Abeer Medical Group.
The highlight of the workshop was two engaging sessions on artificial intelligence led by faculty members from Effat University. Dr. Fidaa Abed and Dr. Omar Alzoubi presented “Meet Your Digital Partner: Understanding AI in Everyday Life,” while Dr. Zain Balfaqih and Dr. Nema Salem discussed “Tech with a Heart: Smart Machines, Smarter Choices.”
The Consul General later presented mementos to the resource persons and sponsors. GGI team members including Kabeer Kondotty, Sadiqali Thuvvur, Abu Kattupara, Jessy Zubair, Ayisha Ruksana, Fathima Thasni, Shibna Backer, Sulfiker Mapplilaveettil, and Noushad Thazhatheveettil also took part in the event, which was anchored by Shamna P.M.