PIRI held the “AI Train-the-Trainers Online Conference” on 28–29 August 2024, designed to empower researchers, educators, and industry professionals across Africa with skills to advance AI education and innovation responsibly.

At the beginning of the conference, the founder & CEO of PIRI, Mr. Simson Mwale, first introduced PIRI as non-profit research institute with Pan-Africanism and PIRI’s hosting role of the conference.

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Thereafter, as the first speaker, Dr. Ombajo Misava Edward presented “Introduction to AI”, with focus on key concepts, applications, and types of AI, Overview of AI tools, including machine learning, neural networks, and natural language processing.

At the session 2, Prof. Dr. Mariëtte van den Hoven, UMC, Netherlands, presented “Ethical and Societal Impacts of AI on Research”, which discussed ethical considerations in AI research and development; Implications of AI on privacy, bias, fairness, and accountability with case studies.

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On the second day of the conference, Dr. Elizabeth Ngumbi, Private Consultant, Kenya & Member of PIRI discussed at session 3: “Responsible Use of AI”. She focused on the principles of responsible AI use and development; ethical frameworks and guidelines for AI design, implementation, and evaluation; Strategies for mitigating bias, ensuring transparency, and promoting AI accountability.

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At the last session, Garth Phiri, PhD Student in Law, Private Consultant, Zambia & Member of PIRI, presented “Policy and Regulations of AI”, which offered overview of national and international policy frameworks governing AI; regulatory considerations for AI research, innovation, and deployment; role of policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in shaping AI policy and governance.

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As the “AI Train-the-Trainers Online Conference” ended, it empowered African researchers, educators, and professionals. Sessions covered AI tech, ethics, and policy. Attendees left ready to drive responsible AI. PIRI is committed to this cause. We invite you to stay engaged. Let’s build an ethical, equitable AI future in Africa together. The journey has just begun!