Sama Partners with University of Nairobi to Advance Generative AI Capabilities in Africa

In a groundbreaking move to bolster the artificial intelligence (AI) industry in Kenya, Sama, a leader in data annotation and model evaluation for some of the world’s largest AI models, has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Nairobi (UoN). Announced on July 18th, 2024, this collaboration aims to advance Generative AI (GenAI) capabilities in Africa, providing significant benefits to both the academic and tech communities.

The partnership between Sama and the University of Nairobi is designed to immerse students and faculty in the rapidly evolving field of GenAI. This initiative offers part-time employment opportunities, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience in data annotation and model evaluation. Sama will provide the necessary training, equipment, materials, and workspaces to support this engagement, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to contribute to and learn from the GenAI industry.

Statements from Key Figures

During the signing ceremony, Prof. Stephen Kiama, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, emphasized the significance of this collaboration. He highlighted that the partnership provides a unique platform for students to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting, thereby enhancing their learning experience and better preparing them for the demands of the AI industry. Prof. Kiama noted that this partnership aligns with UoN’s broader plans to establish an Artificial Intelligence School, aiming to create skilled manpower for the future.

Annepeace Alwala, Vice President of Global Service Delivery at Sama, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. She stressed that the partnership underscores Sama’s commitment to driving innovation and creating opportunities for the youth in Kenya. By offering students practical experience, Sama is investing in the future of AI and contributing to the growth of the technology sector in Kenya.

Alignment with Broader Goals

This partnership is particularly timely as it aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BeTA). Sama’s commitment to this national economic development agenda aims to bridge the digital divide, uplift communities, nurture talent, and position Kenya within the global AI value chain. The initiative promises to create a ripple effect, enhancing digital literacy and providing economic opportunities for underserved communities in Kenya.

Strategic Importance and Broader Impact

For the University of Nairobi:

• Enhanced Learning Environment: The partnership provides a practical learning environment, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
• Strengthened AI Education: Supports UoN’s efforts to establish an Artificial Intelligence School, positioning the university as a leader in AI education and research.
• Industry-Academia Collaboration: Facilitates a model for successful industry-academia partnerships in Africa, promoting the integration of practical experience with academic learning.

For Sama:

• Access to Skilled Talent: Gains access to a pool of talented students and faculty for data annotation and AI projects.
• Commitment to Social Impact: Reinforces Sama’s mission of social impact by creating educational and economic opportunities for Kenyan youth.
• Innovation and Growth: Contributes to the growth of the AI technology sector in Kenya, driving innovation and development.

Economic Development:

• Digital Economy: Enhances Kenya’s digital economy by equipping students with relevant AI skills.
• Economic Transformation: Supports the national agenda of economic transformation through technology, aligning with BeTA.

Educational Advancement:

• Holistic Education: Promotes transformative and holistic education, fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
• Future-Ready Skills: Equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the global AI industry, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

Conclusion

The strategic partnership between Sama and the University of Nairobi marks a significant milestone in the advancement of Generative AI capabilities in Kenya. By combining academic knowledge with real-world applications, this collaboration promises to enhance the educational landscape, contribute to economic development, and position Kenya as a key player in the global AI industry. This initiative exemplifies how industry and academia can work together to drive innovation, create opportunities, and foster the next generation of AI talent in Africa.