During the opening ceremony of the 12th Saudi Conference on High-Performance Computing and Artificial Intelligence, The Acting President of King Khalid University, Prof. Saad bin Mohammad bin Dajam, emphasized the importance of utilizing computing, technology, and artificial intelligence to find solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges. The event was organized by the university's College of Computer Science, and was attended by the CEO of the National Center for Meteorology, Dr. Ayman bin Salem Ghulam, alongside university Vice Presidents, and Deans.

Bin Dajam stated in his opening speech that the three-day conference aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the university's strategy and the development strategy of Asir. He added that the conference provides an exceptional opportunity to exchange ideas and expertise, bringing together a group of experts and specialists in the fields of high-performance computing and artificial intelligence to discuss innovative solutions for addressing environmental and agricultural challenges. He commended the efforts of the wise government, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince, for developing education and promoting scientific research.

He also praised cooperation with strategic partners, particularly the National Center for Meteorology for its vital role in supporting the conference, as well as a number of other active partners. He commended the efforts of the participating students, affirming that they represent the spirit of the conference and are the driving force behind the success of the accompanying hackathon. He concluded his speech by thanking everyone who contributed to organizing this event, which represents a significant step towards enhancing environmental sustainability using computing and artificial intelligence. He affirmed the university's commitment to continuing work in this direction to achieve the goals of Vision 2030.

In her speech, the Dean of the College of Computer Science at King Khalid University and Head of the conference's scientific committee, Dr. Areej Mohammad Al-Asiri, welcomed the attendees, saying, "I am pleased to welcome you to the 12th Saudi Conference on High-Performance Computing and Artificial Intelligence, where this year we are focusing on harnessing these technologies to enhance environmental sustainability in the areas of climate and natural resources." She added, "The conference aims to explore how to apply high-performance computing and artificial intelligence technologies to enhance environmental sustainability, and we look forward to fruitful discussions and gaining new insights over the coming days."

The first day's proceedings began with a keynote speech, followed by a panel discussion. Participants then visited the accompanying exhibition and hackathon challenge, where participants competed to develop innovative solutions using high-performance computing and artificial intelligence to address environmental challenges. At the end of the opening ceremony, partners and sponsors who played a key role in supporting and organizing the event were honored.