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| A new Center for Research and Innovation, aiming to transform educational practices and foster impactful change in learning. |
Mzumbe University has launched the Center for Research and Artificial Intelligence Innovation (CAIRI), a significant step as the nation intensifies its efforts to leverage technology for enhancing education, research, and addressing developmental challenges.
The event took place at the Main Campus in Morogoro, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics, Research, and Consultancy, Prof. Hawa Petro, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. William Mwegoha. The ceremony was also attended by various technology experts, researchers, development partners from Belgium, and students.
During the event, Prof. Hawa remarked that the world is in the midst of a major technological revolution driven by AI, and thus universities cannot afford to lag behind.
"This center will serve as a bridge between knowledge, innovation, and the real needs of the community," stated Prof. Hawa.
CAIRI will focus on impactful research and practical innovations through collaboration between the government and various sectors to ensure that this technology yields visible results for the citizens.
The project coordinator, Dr. Bokigwe Isagah, who is also a lecturer at Mzumbe University, said that the project's goal is to conduct research and innovations that will empower science students to utilize AI in solving community challenges.
" Despite the government's efforts to enhance the use of technology in the education sector, challenges still persist, so there is a great need for all universities to recognize the importance of employing Artificial Intelligence as a solution to improve teaching and learning, as well as to address various educational challenges within the community." he said.
The representative of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Othman Mohamed, stated that the launch of this center is part of the broader national strategy to transition into a digital economy.
"Artificial Intelligence is already transforming the world, impacting education, health, agriculture, and national security. Tanzania must be a part of these changes," he remarked.
"The government is in the process of developing a national AI strategy, alongside enhancing the use of this technology in the education sector by improving ICT infrastructure and establishing guidelines for the proper use of these technologies." he addedAlso , the Director of Innovation, Research, and Development at the National Planning Commission, Dr. Evodius Kanyamyoga Marco, noted that the launch of CAIRI aligns directly with the "National Development Vision 2050" which aims to build Tanzania into a knowledge-based economy reliant on innovation and technology.
"We cannot achieve the goals of Vision 2050 without making significant investments in science, technology, and innovation. This center is a practical step towards that direction," he emphasized.