Kenyan universities are on the cusp of an AI revolution, but critical infrastructure upgrades are needed to pave the way for its seamless integration into classrooms and research labs. This key takeaway emerged from a recent workshop co-organized by the Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC) and the Kenya Education Network (KENET).

The workshop brought together academics, policymakers, researchers, and industry partners to explore how AI can transform teaching, learning, and research in higher education. A central theme was the need for robust infrastructure to collect, store, and analyze local data. This data is essential for training AI models that can address Kenyan-specific challenges and educational needs.

Partnerships and Investment: Bridging the Gap

Microsoft ADC Managing Director, Catherine Muraga, emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing infrastructure hurdles. Collaboration between universities, the government, and the tech industry can unlock resources for technology-related skills development and infrastructure upgrades.

Building Capacity: AI Skills for Everyone

The workshop discussions also highlighted the need for upskilling educators to ensure they can effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching. Prof. Meoli Kashorda, KENET’s executive director, acknowledged the progress made by universities in developing AI infrastructure, but called for additional funding and innovation to expand capacity for AI adoption across academia.

Responsible AI: Ensuring Inclusion and Ethical Practices

The discussions went beyond the technical aspects of AI. Participants underscored the importance of developing AI responsibly and inclusively. This requires investment in collecting and processing data sets that reflect the African context. Furthermore, establishing policies and guidelines for the ethical use of AI in educational settings is crucial.

Sharing Success Stories: Building Momentum for AI

KENET is leading the way by funding case studies that showcase the power of AI in various disciplines, not just computer science. These success stories aim to inspire higher education leaders and pave the way for the widespread adoption of AI in Kenyan universities.

The workshop culminates with the publication of a white paper on AI in higher education. This document will address the challenges and opportunities of AI integration, while providing recommendations for its successful implementation across universities and colleges in Kenya. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Microsoft ADC to equip Kenyans with the technical skills needed to thrive in the AI-powered future.