In a significant boost to artificial intelligence research in Africa, Google.org has announced a $1 million grant to the Wits MIND (Machine and Industrialised Intelligence for Digital Transformation) Institute at the University of the Witwatersrand. This funding is aimed at empowering African researchers to address critical developmental challenges on the continent through cutting-edge AI.
The grant will enable Wits MIND to expand its research and development in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. A core focus will be on building AI models that are trained on African data, addressing the current bias in many global AI systems which are often built using data from developed nations. This localized approach is essential for creating solutions that are not only effective but also culturally and contextually relevant to the diverse communities they serve.
According to Professor Benjamin Mophatlane, director of the Wits MIND Institute, the partnership with Google.org will be a game-changer for the future of AI in Africa. “This grant will help us unlock the potential of African researchers to create AI-driven solutions that can transform lives and build a more inclusive digital future. We are building the next generation of AI leaders who will tackle Africa’s most pressing problems, from predicting crop yields to diagnosing diseases more accurately,” he said.
The funds will be used for a variety of purposes, including providing scholarships for students, acquiring advanced computing infrastructure, and fostering collaborations with other research institutions and industry partners across the continent. This investment by Google.org is part of a broader commitment to advancing AI research and ensuring that the benefits of this technology are accessible to all. The program is expected to produce tangible results within the next three years, with a long-term goal of positioning Africa as a key player in the global AI ecosystem.
