Uganda: How Do We Prepare for the Ai Revolution

30 December 2024
Nile Post (Kampala)
By Edward Kafufu Baliddawa

With the emergency of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution which we in Uganda can't swim against or be able to push back but to adapt and find ways in which we can try to adapt, leverage, and participate in its inevitable emerging ecosystem, there is a critical need to re-evaluate our School Curriculum.

The subjects or disciplines of study that are emphasized both from Primary through Secondary and University levels must also change.

AI is anchored on the ability to generate, collect, archive, and analyze huge volumes of both static and dynamic data whose function is driven by the understanding of Algorithms and Relational Databases.

It implies that only those students who have acquired and developed the skills of Coding/Programming, Data Mining, Data Modeling, Data Analytics, and Logical Reasoning coupled with the ability to solve problems are the ones who will be able to drive the AI revolution in Uganda.

Key skills needed for AI

Some of the skills needed for AI can be summarized as follows:

Deep learning: - A machine learning technique that uses neural networks to imitate human behavior. Deep learning helps AI models perform complex tasks like driving cars and detecting cancer cells. Natural language processing (NLP): - Helps computers understand human language to improve chatbots, AI assistants, and automation.

Critical thinking: - A valued skill when working with AI systems, especially as the division of labor between humans and machines changes.

Problem-solving: - An essential skill for AI professionals, helping you discover solutions for complex problems.

Programming languages: -

Mastery of programming languages is fundamental for an AI engineer. Python is a commonly used language for AI and machine learning.

Mathematics: - A strong foundation in mathematics, especially linear algebra, calculus, and probability/statistics, is important for understanding algorithms and models.

Computer vision: - A field of computer science that enables computers to identify and understand objects and people in images and videos.

Needed Input by the Ministry of Education

The need for these skills therefore calls for the need for the Ministry of Education through the National Council for Higher Education and the National Curriculum Center, to review the study curriculum being offered in our schools.

The future only belongs to those who will be able to appropriately and quickly adjust, adapt, and engage.

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