Artificial intelligence for education

Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world and security and economic challenges continue to limit school enrollments. Even when children are in class, they face challenges. Many cannot learn effectively because subjects are taught in French or English rather than in their mother tongue. Teachers are often overworked with administrative tasks that can inhibit effective teaching. Artificial intelligence (AI) has vast potential to address these and other challenges in education systems to improve access to education and the quality of learning across the continent.

This project will establish a research network for responsible AI for education innovation to advance AI innovations that strengthen teaching, learning and school administrative functions in sub-Saharan Africa. The network will bring together researchers, developers and designers to develop relevant, responsible and scalable AI models and solutions to improve sustainable and inclusive education in Africa. By promoting AI developed on the continent, the project seeks to drive inclusive and sustainable education in Africa.

This project is part of the four-year AI for Development in Africa (AI4D Africa) partnership between the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency and IDRC to support policy, innovations and expanded leadership that will spur responsible AI development in Africa. The mission of the program is to improve the quality of life for all in Africa and beyond by partnering with Africa’s science and policy communities to leverage AI through high-quality research, responsible innovation and strengthening talent.