Ahead of the Global AI Summit on Africa last week, Rose Kimu, a Mastercard Foundation scholar at Carnegie Mellon University Africa, urged leaders to invest in young women like herself so that Africa can benefit from the AI revolution.
“My journey — from an overcrowded public school where I was one of nearly 100 students sharing a single classroom, to conducting advanced AI research at a prestigious university — has given me a unique insight into both the privilege and systemic barriers facing many young Africans,” she wrote in an opinion piece for Devex, outlining ways to break down those barriers, from mentorship programs to stronger AI governance.
“Africa stands at a defining moment,” she wrote. “With the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, we have an opportunity to leverage artificial intelligence for economic growth, job creation, and social progress.”
Opinion: Africa's AI future hinges on youth investment
“My journey — from an overcrowded public school where I was one of nearly 100 students sharing a single classroom, to conducting advanced AI research at a prestigious university — has given me a unique insight into both the privilege and systemic barriers facing many young Africans,” she wrote in an opinion piece for Devex, outlining ways to break down those barriers, from mentorship programs to stronger AI governance.
“Africa stands at a defining moment,” she wrote. “With the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, we have an opportunity to leverage artificial intelligence for economic growth, job creation, and social progress.”
Opinion: Africa's AI future hinges on youth investment