Data Sovereignty & Business Empowerment:
Marvin Tumwesigye of Jika Analytics opened with a powerful message: “Too many businesses rely on platforms they don’t control. #AI must empower African entrepreneurs to own their data, and not just license it.” His call for data sovereignty resonated deeply—stressing the need for African markets to take control of their digital future rather than depending on foreign platforms that limit autonomy.
Reimagining Education Through AI
Michael Niyitegeka, Executive Director at Refactory, led an interactive session focused on transforming education through AI. His session highlighted the real-world challenges educators face—lack of infrastructure, poor curriculum alignment, and difficulties in evaluating learning outcomes. He challenged educators to think critically: “Group up, define your biggest challenges, and ask: How can AI solve this?” This session underscored a critical truth: innovation doesn’t begin with tech; it starts with conversation, collaboration, and clarity.
During his session, Michael Niyitegeka, Executive Director of Refactory, shared a compelling real-world example of how AI has transformed traditional processes in education. Faced with a scholarship program offering just 50 slots but attracting over 2,250 applicants, his team was confronted with the daunting task of screening candidates fairly and efficiently. Instead of relying on manual methods, they turned to Quarterbyte, an AI-driven platform.
Through a series of structured challenges and assessments, they quickly filtered the pool—reducing 2,251 applicants to 500 in the first round, then to 200 after further evaluation. The AI system also flagged instances of malpractice, ensuring integrity in the selection process. “What would have taken a month of manual work was completed in just two weeks,” Niyitegeka noted, underscoring how AI streamlined assessments and provided deeper insights into candidates’ real capabilities. He emphasized that beyond automating processes, AI tools offer an opportunity to simulate work experiences and build learner portfolios while still in school—shifting the focus from rote exams to practical, skill-based learning.
His takeaway:even without extensive infrastructure, many affordable, accessible AI solutions are already within reach, ready to revolutionize how African institutions deliver education and prepare students for the workforce.
Panel Discussion: Scaling Quality Education with AI
This panel discussion titled “Scaling Quality Education with AI” brought together leading voices in education and technology to explore how artificial intelligence can transform learning across the continent. Moderated by Lillian Nakasujja of Refactory, the session featured insights from Felix Kitaka (Audersity Studios), Irene Esther Mutuzo (Makerere University), and Edison Kagona (Cavendish University Uganda).
Empowering Educators with AI ToolsRecognizing that teachers are central to the educational process, the discussion highlighted the importance of equipping educators with AI tools and training. By doing so, teachers can enhance their instructional methods, better assess student performance, and foster a more engaging learning environment.
Simulated Learning Environments
Creating AI-powered simulations was identified as a strategy to provide students with practical, hands-on experiences. Such environments can mimic real-world scenarios, allowing learners to apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled, risk-free setting, thereby enhancing comprehension and retention. AI holds the promise of breaking barriers for persons with disabilities—but only if it’s built right. Irene Esther Mutuzo emphasized: “Imagine a blind student receiving real-time narration of their environment, enabling them to participate equally in classrooms and workplaces.”
Her reminder was clear: Inclusion starts at the design stage. AI must speak the language of the people, culturally and linguistically, to truly transform education:
If AI tools don’t speak the languages of those they serve, then they’re not truly for the people.
Edison Kagona of Cavendish University Uganda reimagined the future classroom: “AI shouldn’t just give you answers. It should guide you through the thinking process.”
He stressed that the future of education lies in AI-powered learning environments where students receive real-time feedback, correct mistakes as they learn, and build critical reasoning skills.Research shows that students who learn with AI tutors, not just AI that gives answers, perform significantly better when tested independently. In the classroom of the future, AI will function as a co-pilot, helping students understand concepts deeply rather than memorise solutions
True innovation is not just about fast internet or advanced gadgets, it’s about designing AI that meets people where they are—across rural and urban communities alike. From Lira to Kampala and beyond, Africa’s AI journey must focus on: Language inclusion Cultural relevance Equal access to tools and knowledge
True innovation is not just about fast internet or advanced gadgets. It’s about designing AI that meets people where they are—across rural and urban communities alike. From Lira to Kampala and beyond, Africa’s AI journey must focus on:
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