Graduates challenged to embrace AI responsibly for Africa’s growth

ARUSHA: GRADUATES from various programmes at the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI) have been urged to embrace digital transformation boldly, responsibly and ethically as a pathway to advancing Africa’s economic development.

The call was made recently during ESAMI’s 23rd graduation ceremony, where more than 350 students received their awards.

Officiating the event, Zambia’s Minister for Education Mr Douglas Syakalima reminded leaders and governance professionals that Africa cannot afford to lag behind in an era defined by data and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Mr Syakalima noted that as the world transitions rapidly into an AI-driven global economy, Africans must assess their preparedness to adopt and integrate the technology and, even more importantly, how to use it to drive economic growth.

He stressed that AI must be deployed ethically, responsibly, and strategically to ensure the continent keeps pace with fastevolving global technologies.

“The technological revolution sweeping the world must be integrated into government systems, the economy and education. Each graduate has a responsibility to contribute to this effort as part of strengthening national and continental growth,” he said.

He said that the past decade has seen unprecedented global transformation driven by digital platforms, big data and AI.

“Innovation is no longer a luxury; it is the oxygen of modern development,” Mr Syakalima added.

He further explained that countries that have succeeded or are succeeding, are those that adopted technology with ethical discipline, accountability and strong oversight.

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He urged graduates to continue learning emerging technologies and incorporate them into policy-making, management and organisational development.

Mr Syakalima encouraged graduates to become leaders capable of blending African values, culture and modern technology to build innovative, secure and citizen-centred systems.

“Africa today needs leaders who can translate technology into tangible benefits for its people,” he said.

Among the graduates, Ms Theresia Mtewele, who earned a Master’s Degree in Business Leadership, said the knowledge gained at ESAMI has prepared them to lead governance reforms by using AI to enhance transparency and efficiency in both public and private institutions.

“We leave here empowered to transform our communities. AI is not a threat, it is an opportunity to address administrative challenges,” she said.

Ms Mtewele also encouraged fellow graduates to publish their research so that it becomes a valuable resource for society and the global community, noting that research helps identify challenges, provide solutions and stimulate innovation across sectors.

“Africa has every reason to match the world’s pace. ESAMI has given us the foundation to do exactly that,” she added.

Earlier, ESAMI Executive Director Dr Peter Kiuluku urged newly qualified researchers to apply their skills to produce impactful research that benefits their communities, rather than engaging in work that does not contribute to development.