 |
| Former President Jakaya Kikwete and Harvard Kennedy School's Prof. Jeremy Weinstein engage in discussion in the U.S. |
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has entered into strategic partnership discussions with Harvard University in the United States, aimed at enhancing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, research, and data analysis.
These discussions were initiated by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, former President Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, during a working visit to the United States.
The collaboration aims to build capacity for effective AI utilization in teaching, accelerate research efforts, and simplify the processing of large amounts of data in a short time, an area that is becoming increasingly important in universities worldwide.
As higher education institutions face challenges and opportunities arising from AI, UDSM's move to engage in talks with Harvard appears to be a proactive strategy to ensure that Tanzania does not fall behind in the technological revolution.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Kikwete emphasized the importance of responsible and appropriate use of AI, noting that this technology could be a vital tool for improving the quality of education and research if managed properly.
On Harvard's side, the discussions involved senior leaders and experts, including the Dean of Harvard Kennedy School, Prof. Jeremy M. Weinstein, and the Executive Director of the Center for International Development (CID), Dr. Fatema Sumar.
Additionally, a team of AI experts from Harvard participated in the discussions, led by Prof. Sharad Goel, along with Dr. Dan Levy and Dr. Teddy Svoronos—all of whom have extensive experience in applying AI in public policy and data analysis.
These discussions will be followed by close collaboration between the stakeholders at both universities. Harvard University has pledged to assist in building the capacity of the University of Dar es Salaam through artificial intelligence and data science.
This partnership is expected to open a new chapter in the higher education sector in the country, by combining local expertise with international experience in the use of modern technology.