Exploring the Shift From AlexNet to Agentic AI: SDSN Kuwait and GUST Spotlight the Role of AI in Sustainable Development
On February 12, 2026, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network’s Kuwait Network (SDSN Kuwait), in collaboration with the College of Business Administration (CBA) at the Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), hosted the seminar “From AlexNet (2012) to Agentic AI (2025+): The Monumental Shift in Artificial Intelligence.”
The seminar was delivered by Prof. Yaser Jararweh, a leading scholar in computer science at the Jordan University of Science and Technology, whose work focuses on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and distributed systems. The event brought together faculty members and students to explore the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and discuss its potential contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the presentation, Prof. Jararweh traced the development of AI systems over the past decade. A key milestone in this journey was AlexNet, a deep learning model introduced in 2012 that significantly improved image recognition performance and marked a turning point for modern AI research. The seminar highlighted the next stage of this evolution: agentic AI. These systems are designed to operate with greater autonomy, enabling them to plan, reason, and execute multi-step tasks with minimal human intervention.
Beyond the technical discussion, the seminar emphasized how advances in artificial intelligence can help achieve the SDGs. The discussion highlighted several areas where AI could support progress:
1. Improving Access to Quality Education (SDG 4)
AI can expand access to education by enabling personalized learning systems. Intelligent tutoring platforms can adapt to individual learning styles, provide real-time feedback, and support students who may not have access to traditional academic resources. These technologies can also assist educators by automating routine tasks and helping them focus on mentoring and teaching.
2. Supporting Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
AI-driven automation and digital workers can enhance productivity, create new technology sectors, and support knowledge-based economies, while emphasizing the need for workforce upskilling and reskilling.
3. Driving Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
The development of AI systems also strengthens technological ecosystems and digital infrastructure. From cloud computing to data platforms and smart services, AI plays an increasingly central role in modern industry and research. Agentic AI systems may further accelerate innovation by enabling more advanced automation in sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare.
4. Enhancing Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)
AI also offers powerful tools for urban management. AI systems can help optimize traffic flows, improve energy efficiency in buildings, and support smarter public services. For cities facing rapid population growth and resource constraints, such technologies can enhance sustainability and resilience.
5. Promoting Responsible and Trustworthy AI
While AI offers significant opportunities, the seminar also addressed the importance of governance and ethical considerations. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and security in AI systems is essential to building public trust. Responsible AI governance can help institutions use these technologies to strengthen democratic institutions and protect individuals. This discussion aligns closely with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which highlights the importance of transparent and effective institutions.
Engaging Students and Researchers in Sustainable Development
One of the seminar’s key goals was to encourage students and faculty to think critically about the role of emerging technologies in addressing global challenges. By connecting advances in artificial intelligence to the SDGs, the event demonstrated how research, innovation, and education can contribute to sustainable development. For many students in attendance, the seminar provided an opportunity to explore how technical fields such as MIS, computer science, and data analytics intersect with global sustainability goals.
Looking Ahead
The rapid progress of AI, from early breakthroughs like AlexNet to the emerging era of agentic AI, illustrates the transformative potential of digital technologies. However, the impact of these innovations will depend on how they are developed, governed, and applied. Universities, research institutions, and global networks play a crucial role in ensuring that technological advances support inclusive and sustainable development.
Through initiatives such as this seminar, SDSN Kuwait and GUST aim to foster dialogue, awareness, and collaboration on the role of technology in achieving the SDGs.
Dr. Muder Al Mi’ani is an Associate Professor, MIS Department, CBA, GUST, and Dr. Fida Karam is a Manager for SDSN Kuwait.
