Project description

Africa’s higher education system has great potential to drive innovation, research, and sustainable development across the continent. With more than 400 million young people aged 15 to 35, Africa has the youngest population in the world. This provides a unique opportunity to shape a generation capable of leading the continent’s transformation, provided they have access to quality education and the right skills. To achieve this, universities and training institutions must align their programs with modern demands by strengthening education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These areas are critical for addressing major challenges such as food insecurity, unemployment, environmental degradation, and climate change.

Among the technologies shaping Africa’s future, Artificial Intelligence stands out as particularly promising. AI allows machines to learn, reason, and make decisions in ways similar to humans. It has the potential to transform teaching, learning, and innovation across the continent. Recognizing this, the African Union (AU) developed a Continental AI Strategy in 2024 to guide member states in using AI for inclusive development. However, the strategy also highlighted barriers, including limited skills, weak infrastructure, low investment in AI research, poor access to data, and minimal collaboration between universities, industries, and policymakers.

To fully benefit from the digital economy and meet global development goals, Africa needs to train at least 5,000 doctoral-level scholars in AI and machine learning over the next five years. However, many universities still lack strong programs to prepare students for these careers. A UNESCO study found that only eleven (11) countries worldwide have approved AI curricula for schools, and none are in Africa.

The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) is addressing this need through the project Advancing Responsible and Gender-Inclusive Artificial Intelligence Capacity in Africa’s Higher Education Ecosystem (ARISE). The initiative aims to strengthen responsible and inclusive AI education, research, and innovation in African universities. Building on earlier ATPS work on AI for agriculture and food systems (AI4AFS +), ARISE promotes fairness, equality, and ethical use of technology while empowering African institutions to become leaders in AI development and application.