Zambia Set to Create Second AI Centre of Excellence for Education
The Zambian government recently announced plans to establish a second Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Lusaka, with the primary objective of strengthening the education system. The centre is a continuation of a partnership with Google to develop AI in Zambian education.
A Partnership with Google to Boost Innovation
Already in September, Zambia took a major step forward by launching a first AI Centre of Excellence at the University of Zambia, aimed at encouraging young innovators to come up with solutions to the country’s social challenges . In this context, the new centre in Lusaka will play a key role for secondary education, with a particular focus on Katoba Secondary School in Chongwe District.
Katoba Secondary School as AI Pioneer
Minister of Science and Technology Felix Mutati said Katoba Secondary School would be transformed into a leading AI hub. The school will become a showcase for the dissemination of artificial intelligence tools and learning aids across Zambian schools. The aim is to train teachers and ensure the dissemination of innovative teaching practices to address educational challenges, including reading and comprehension.
AI as an Answer to Education Challenges in Zambia
UNESCO figures show that 99% of Zambian 10-year-old children cannot read and understand age-appropriate text. In this context, AI technologies are seen as an innovative solution to support teachers in preparing their lessons and monitoring students’ progress. For Minister Mutati, AI has the potential to revolutionize the Zambian education system by making it more efficient and more adapted to the needs of each student.
Conclusion: AI at the Heart of Educational Transformation in Zambia
With the establishment of this second AI Centre of Excellence, Zambia aims to make artificial intelligence a major lever to transform its education. This ambitious project, supported by strategic partnerships, marks a promising step towards overcoming the country’s educational challenges and opening new perspectives for the younger generations.
