RIYADH: The third Future of Semiconductors Forum 2024 in Riyadh on June 5 and 6 will see experts discuss ways to boost domestic production of chips and the nation’s digital economy, according to a statement released by the organizers on Sunday. The event will be hosted by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. The participants will discuss production including the sourcing of raw materials and manufacturing of completed microchips. Additionally, they will examine the application of this technology in space exploration, quantum technologies, 6G communications, electric vehicles, and integrated sensors to enable smart cities. Dr. Munir Eldesouki, president of KACST, said that the forum reflects the goals and priorities set by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in research, development and innovation. Dr. Tony Chan, president of KAUST, said the forum offers opportunities to enhance the digital economy, advance research cooperation between various entities, and exchange knowledge about best practices in the electronic chip industry. Among those expected to attend are policymakers, industry leaders, and scholars in semiconductor technology. Notable participants include Shuji Nakamura, a Nobel laureate in physics for his development of blue/green light-emitting and violet-laser diodes; and Kang Wang, who serves as co-director of the Center for Quantum Science and Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles. Also expected is Steven P. DenBaars from the University of California-Santa Barbara, renowned for holding more than 190 US patents and co-founding the Institute of Engineering Electricity and Electronics with four photonics and electronics companies. Discussions will also take place on the Saudi Semiconductors Program, a regional initiative with 16 Saudi Arabia universities that has trained over 400 researchers and students in microchip design and manufacturing. Those interested can register at https://semiconductors.kacst.gov.sa .