About 24 lecturers from Kenyan universities have completed an AI training programme by the Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC).
The 12-week programme, developed and delivered in partnership with Microsoft Leap trainers, benefitted lecturers from Zec University, Kabarak University, Multimedia University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, St. Paul’s University, Strathmore University, United States International University, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, and Miriyo University.
“We are delighted to see all 24 lecturers who started the programme graduate as it aims to enhance the skills of faculty in teaching and research as the world seeks to do more with the power of AI. The impact of the programme will be felt in the classrooms of lecturers and universities and beyond by fostering collaboration and innovation,” said Irene Githinji, Education Engagement Officer at Microsoft’s Academic Development Centre.
Artificial intelligence technology enables computers and machines to simulate human intelligence and problem-solving tasks. This technology can be applied in many sectors and industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and the military.
“Through the programme, we learned what the industry is looking for. It allowed us to see that we may not have adequately prepared students for the current market needs. It showed us that we need to work with AI to enhance our productivity as lecturers and that of our students, rather than seeing it as competition. Through the training, we saw 21st century educational design that can integrate technology to teach within and outside the tech industry,” said Peter Muturi, Programming Lecturer at Multimedia University.
In addition to learning the principles of artificial intelligence and software engineering, the program focused on a project-based learning approach that aimed to build creative skills to tackle difficult or unstructured problems, usually in small teams.