DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Principal Secretary of Zanzibar’s Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, Ms Mwanakhamis Adam Ameir, said the government aims to position the IIT Madras Zanzibar campus as a hub for education in Africa.
“We invite ambassadors to encourage the enrolment of students from your countries. This institution is central to our vision of making Zanzibar a centre of excellence in technology,” Ms Ameir stated.
She was speaking during a special reception organised by the High Commission of India, the focus was on the role of AI in diplomacy.
The IITM is spearheading AI education to prepare future diplomats with tools to analyse data and make informed decisions.
Ambassador of the Union of Comoros and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Dr Ahamada El Badaoui Mohamed Fakih, praised the initiative.
“This programme is timely and necessary. It is a commendable step towards bridging the digital divide in Africa,” he said.
IIT Madras Zanzibar has made significant strides in offering specialised courses. The institution, which opened in October 2023, offers programmes in artificial intelligence, data science, and ocean structures.
According to its Director, Prof Preeti Aghalayam, the campus is designed to nurture talent in emerging fields.
“Our BS and MTech programmes in AI and Data Science, as well as Ocean Structures, are tailored to equip students with cutting-edge skills. Admissions open every January,” Prof Aghalayam explained.
The importance of AI in diplomacy was further underscored by Prof Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean of Global Engagement at IIT Madras.
He explained how AI could help diplomats understand global dynamics better through advanced data analysis and predictive modelling.
High Commissioner of India, Mr Bishwadip Dey, emphasised the event’s significance.
“AI is the future of diplomacy. It enables deeper understanding and fosters smarter decision-making in international relations,” he noted.
The institution’s collaboration with private companies is also creating new opportunities. Airtel Tanzania’s Managing Director, Mr Charles Kamoto, announced the launch of the Airtel Africa Fellowship.
